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Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans

Pet Scans

At UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, we believe parents and guardians can contribute to the success of this test and invite you to participate. Please read the following information to learn about the scan and how you can help.


Contact the Epilepsy Surgery Program at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh

To make a referral, schedule an appointment, or request an evaluation for a child or teen, contact us at 412-692-6928 or email epilepsysurgery@chp.edu.


Fast Facts About PET Scans

  • The PET scan gives doctors detailed pictures of certain activities going on in the body.
  • Your child will be given an injection (shot) of a special liquid before the test.
  • The special liquid has a very small amount of radioactive molecules in it. The liquid is safe and will not hurt your child.
  • Your child must wait 30 minutes to 1 hour for the liquid to travel through the body before the PET scan starts.
  • The PET scan itself takes only 30 minutes to 1 hour, but the whole test may take up to 2 hours.
  • The PET scanner will not touch your child and the scan will not hurt.
  • On the day of the test, there are some special rules for eating and drinking.
  • After the test, your child can usually resume normal activities and diet.