Spine SPECT-CT – How to Prepare
When preparing for your spine SPECT-CT, you may be asked by your Mountain Medical technologist or radiologist to change into an examination gown. Metal objects may affect the CT images and should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work.
Prior to the imaging, you should inform your radiologist and the technologist performing your exam of any medications you are taking, including vitamins and herbal supplements. You should also inform them of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and allergies.
Generally, you should not drink any liquids containing sugars or calories for several hours before the SPECT-CT. Instead, you are encouraged to drink water. If you are diabetic, you may be given special instructions.
If you are breastfeeding at the time of the PET-CT, you should ask your radiologist how to proceed. It may help to pump breast milk ahead of time and keep it on hand for use after the PET radiopharmaceutical and CT contrast material are no longer in your body.
Women should always inform their radiologist or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
Watch the CT - What to Expect Video.
