Whole-Body Bone Positron Emission Tomography for Skeletal and Full Musculoskeletal System Evaluation
This whole-body bone positron emission tomography (PET) scan is a radiation-based imaging technique that uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to visualize metabolic activity across your entire skeleton, as well as adjacent musculoskeletal structures including joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and cartilage. It is commonly ordered to evaluate for metastatic bone cancer, primary bone tumors, osteomyelitis (bone infection), inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, and occult fractures that are not visible on standard X-ray imaging. The scan requires no contrast administration, delivers minimal radiation exposure, takes approximately 10 minutes to complete, and carries a low risk of triggering claustrophobia in most patients.
This low-radiation 10-minute whole-body bone PET scan uses radioactive tracer uptake to assess your entire skeleton and surrounding musculoskeletal structures for signs of bone cancer, infection, joint inflammation, or hidden fractures.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- pet
- Body part
- whole-body
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 14
- Duration (min)
- 10
- Preparation
- fasting-6h
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- low
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- any
- Cost tier
- very_high
Understanding PET Scan of skeleton
Positron Emission Tomography provides detailed visualization of skeleton. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This imaging detects fractures and dislocations, evaluates joint arthropathy, assesses soft tissue injuries, and identifies bone lesions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 10 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This pet scan evaluates whole-body, specifically skeleton. Uses controlled radiation.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of skeleton and bones. Part of the musculoskeletal system.
Why Is It Done?
Detect fractures, Evaluate joints, Assess soft tissue.
What to Expect
Procedure takes 10 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy