Bay Area Heart

Unlocking the Heart's Secrets:
Understanding Cardiac PET CT

Dear Patients,

When it comes to matters of the heart, technology continues to pave the way for more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment. One such groundbreaking technology is Cardiac PET CT, a powerful imaging tool that offers unparalleled insights into the functioning of your heart. At Bay Area Heart, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their health, which is why we are here to shed light on this remarkable diagnostic procedure.

What is Cardiac PET CT?

Cardiac PET CT, short for Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography, is a sophisticated imaging technique that combines the principles of PET and CT scans to provide detailed images of the heart. It allows healthcare providers to assess the blood flow to your heart muscle, detect any abnormalities, and evaluate the overall function of your heart.

How Does it Work?

During a Cardiac PET CT scan, a small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into your bloodstream. This tracer is specifically designed to highlight areas of your heart that may have reduced blood flow or metabolic activity. As you lie comfortably on the examination table, the PET CT machine captures images of your heart from different angles while the tracer circulates through your body.

The CT component of the scan provides detailed anatomical images, allowing healthcare providers to precisely locate any areas of concern within your heart. By combining both functional and structural information, Cardiac PET CT offers a comprehensive view of your heart’s health.

What to Expect During the Procedure?

A Cardiac PET CT scan is a non-invasive procedure that typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete. You will be asked to lie still on the examination table while the machine captures images of your heart. Throughout the process, our experienced technologists and healthcare providers will ensure your comfort and safety.

Understanding the Results

After your Cardiac PET CT scan, our team of experts will carefully analyze the images to assess the function and perfusion of your heart. The results provide valuable insights into the presence of any cardiovascular conditions, such as coronary artery disease or myocardial infarction. Based on these findings, we can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

*Here is an example of a Cardiac PET CT image that showcases the intricate details of the heart’s anatomy and blood flow, allowing healthcare providers to pinpoint areas of concern with precision.*

Example of a Cardiac PET CT Image

img

Example of a Coronary Flow Reserve Image

img

Image Source: Siemens Healthineers

img3

Bay Area Heart: Your Partner in Cardiovascular Health

At Bay Area Heart, we’re committed to providing our patients with the highest standard of care using advanced technologies like Cardiac PET CT. Our team of board-certified cardiologists and specialists are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal heart health and well-being.

Whether you are seeking preventive care, diagnostic imaging, or specialized treatment, you can trust Bay Area Heart to deliver compassionate and comprehensive cardiovascular services. With Cardiac PET CT, we’re able to offer cutting-edge diagnostic capabilities that empower you to take control of your heart health.

If you have any questions about Cardiac PET CT or would like to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to contact us. Together, we can embark on a journey towards a healthier heart and a brighter future

img