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This test uses a radioactive substance to determine how well the organs are functioning.
The cost information on this website is estimated and is based on roughly 67.6 million claims from a set of insurers and their reported negotiated rates with providers. These estimates are trended to and considered valid through July 1, 2019 based upon claims paid between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017.
$ 3,103
2,753
Our prices are estimates based on an average and may not be your actual costs. Your costs may be higher or lower for a number of reasons, including insurance deductibles, how sick you are, or other factors.
Our estimated cost information is not a guarantee of payment or benefits. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than the estimate.
This procedure includes the following steps and procedures. Costs are broken out by step.
A test that uses a radioactive substance to create detailed images of how the organs are functioning
NATIONAL
$ 3,103
State ()
NA
NATIONAL
$ 3,103
State ()
Before you see your health care provider, learn more about this procedure, treatment or test. Remember that individual treatment plans and patient experiences may vary. This information is provided to help you understand what may happen during your visit or treatment.
A PET scan uses a small amount of radioactive material (tracer). The tracer is given through a vein (IV). The needle is most often inserted on the inside of your elbow. The tracer travels through your blood and collects in organs and tissues. This helps the radiologist see certain areas more clearly.
You will need to wait as the tracer is absorbed by your body. This takes about 1 hour. Then, you will lie on a narrow table that slides into a large tunnel-shaped scanner. The PET detects signals from the tracer. A computer changes the signals into 3D pictures. The images are displayed on a monitor for your health care provider to read. Once you are inside the scanner, the machine's x-ray beam rotates around you. Modern "spiral" scanners can perform the exam without stopping. A computer creates separate images of the body area, called slices. These images can be stored, viewed on a monitor, or printed on film. Three-dimensional models of the body area can be created by stacking the slices together. You must lie still during the test. Too much movement can blur images and cause errors. How long the test takes depends on what part of the body is being scanned. You may feel a sharp sting when the needle with the tracer is placed into your vein. Contrast given through an IV may cause a slight burning feeling, a metallic taste in the mouth, and a warm flushing of the body. These sensations are normal and usually go away within a few seconds. A PET scan causes no pain. The table may be hard or cold, but you can request a blanket or pillow. Some people may have discomfort from lying on the hard table. An intercom in the room allows you to speak to someone at any time. There is no recovery time, unless you were given a medicine to relax.
Sometimes there are things you can do that may positively affect your outcome. Here are some examples. Be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your provider.
To get the best quality of care, be informed! Don’t be afraid to ask for a clearer explanation or to ask questions. Consider these topics when talking with your provider.
Here are some other procedures and tests that may relate to your condition, or could serve as alternative options to explore with your provider. Remember that individual treatment plans and patient experiences may vary.
