What should you know about a mobile PET-CT scanner?

PET uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to show patterns of activity in the body. CT provides anatomical detail that helps locate those patterns. Together, the images can support cancer diagnosis, staging, treatment planning or assessment of how a tumour is responding.

A mobile unit may visit a hospital or community site on scheduled days. The scanner itself is not a treatment machine. The appointment includes safety questions, tracer administration, a quiet waiting period and image acquisition; the exact sequence depends on the centre's protocol.

Follow the centre's instructions about fasting, permitted fluids, medicines and activity before arrival. Tell staff if you have diabetes, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have recently received another radioactive test, or may struggle to lie still. Wear comfortable clothing and bring your referral and medicine list.

After the tracer is given, rest quietly as instructed and avoid unnecessary movement. The technologist will explain when you can leave and whether you should limit close contact briefly. Drink fluids if the team advises this, and follow their specific discharge guidance.

Tell staff straight away about dizziness, pain, nausea or a reaction after the tracer. After leaving, seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, facial swelling, fainting or severe weakness. Contact the imaging centre if you vomit soon after tracer administration or cannot follow the discharge instructions.

What is the scan intended to answer? Which tracer will be used, and how should I manage food, diabetes medicines or breastfeeding? How long will the visit take? Are there precautions after the scan? When and how will the report be shared with my treating team?