At Connected Cardiovascular Care Associates (C3), we are committed to offering the most advanced imaging technology for accurate diagnosis and personalized heart care.

Our PET CT Scanner is a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that provides highly detailed 3D images of the heart and its function, helping our cardiologists detect coronary artery disease and other serious heart conditions with unmatched precision.

What Is a PET CT Stress Test?
A Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET CT) stress test combines two powerful imaging techniques into one non-invasive test. It uses a small amount of radioactive tracer and a CT scanner to create high-resolution images that show how well blood is flowing through the heart muscle and whether there are areas of reduced perfusion or damage.

The PET CT Scanner offers high sensitivity, low radiation exposure, and superior accuracy—making it one of the most effective imaging methods for diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

Why Your Cardiologist May Order a PET CT Scan
Your C3 cardiologist may recommend a PET CT scan if you experience symptoms that suggest reduced blood flow to the heart or other cardiac concerns.

These symptoms may include:
• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath (especially with exertion)
• Fatigue or lightheadedness
• Abnormal stress test results
• A history of coronary artery disease or stents
• A need to assess heart function after a heart attack

The PET CT scan helps your cardiologist:
• Evaluate blood flow to the heart muscle (myocardial perfusion)
• Identify areas of the heart that may not be receiving enough oxygen
• Assess the presence and severity of coronary artery disease
• Guide decisions about further treatment, such as medication, stents, or surgery

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What to Expect the Day of the Test
On the day of your PET CT stress test, please follow these steps and our detailed patient instructions sheet for a smooth experience and accurate results:

• Fasting: Do not eat or drink anything except water for 4 hours before your appointment. Avoid caffeine for 12 hours prior.
• Medications: Avoid taking any Beta Blockers 24 hours prior to your test.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing without metal (no underwire bras, zippers, or jewelry).
• Arrival: Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in and preparation.

During the test:
• Scans are performed at rest and again after the stress agent is administered, capturing images of the heart’s blood flow.
• A small amount of radiotracer will be injected into your vein.
• You will lie comfortably on the scanning table while the machine takes detailed images.
• The test typically takes about 1 hour, including preparation and scanning time.
• After the scan, you can resume normal activites unless advised otherwise.

Advanced Cardiac Imaging You Can Trust
The PET CT Scanner allows our team at C3 to offer more accurate and reliable heart imaging in a safe, comfortable setting. This advanced technology supports early detection, risk assessment, and personalized treatment planning—helping you stay ahead of heart disease.