My father was told he should have a PET scan before he began chemo. He was going to have an RC but the scan showed metastasis to the bones. Without the PET, we would never have known it had spread. I am in central NJ and it is something that is routinely done in my area, when possible. It is a very expensive test but I think it is well worth the peace of mind. In my fathers case, none of his medical treatment is through insurance because it is a workers comp. case.....but either way, it is something we would have gotten even if it needed to be paid for out of pocket. I saw the results myself and it was astounding! The areas with the cancer were all lit up and colored. It was pretty unbelievable what it is able to pick up. The report also stated how concentrated the cancer was in certain areas.
While no one wants to have their cancer met., I believe that it is best to know so that it can be treated accordingly. As much as a crushing blow this was for us, my father is now going through aggressive chemo and will have another PET scan in a month or so.
Hope this helps!
xoxoxo
Melissa