PET/CT
PET/CT: Preparation Guidelines | Insurance Reimbursement | Form | Frequently Asked Questions
We are pleased to announce our Installation of the GEMINI GXL PET/CT system.
PET/CT imaging, a powerful hybrid approach to diagnosis, may help your doctor to make critical decisions about your care. PET shows metabolic activity within the body that, in some cases, provides answers that other imaging tests may not provide. With our PET/CT system, we combine PET images with CT (Computed Tomography) images in one scan, leading to an even greater level of diagnostic confidence. Exams are non-invasive and more comfortable than you might think. The system’s open design allows our staff to interact with patients every step of the way.
What is PET/CT?
PET (Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography) is an important imaging technology that provides critical diagnostic information about metabolism and body function. PET/CT evaluates the chemical and physiological changes related to metabolism. Since these changes occur long before structural damage occurs in tissue, PET/CT provides a crucial advantage that can allow detection of disease before other imaging modalities. Early detection and treatment can have a tremendous positive impact on patient care.
How is it done?
In order to create PET/CT images, the patient must first receive an injection of a small amount of 18FDG (flourodeoxyglucose), a radiotracer. This material is absorbed by the body over a short period of time. The scanner records images of its distribution in the patient’s body. There are no side effects from this substance and it leaves the body quickly. A CT scan is acquired during the same imaging session, which is fused with the PET scan.
Please see PET- PREPARATION for detailed patient information and preparation guidelines.
Why merge PET with CT?
The integration of metabolic data from PET with anatomic data from CT allows physicians to better view the structural detail and location of metabolic changes in tissue. This fusion of PET and CT is an invaluable diagnostic tool. A single PET/CT scan can give information about the functioning of many organs or organ systems throughout the body. Alone, each imaging test is effective for a wide variety of applications. But when the results of PET and CT scans are fused together, the combined image provides accurate information on disease location and metabolic activity. The replacement of multiple tests is also convenient for patients and physicians, as the extent of disease may be established more quickly and with greater confidence.
When is PET/CT used?
ONCOLOGY (the study of cancer) is an important application for PET/CT. Our state-of-the-art imaging system helps us acquire vital diagnostic information that can alter the course of cancer treatment, aid in therapy planning and sometimes help avoid unwarranted surgery. PET/CT may provide critical information about whether a tumor is malignant or not, the extent of cancer, whether it has spread to other organs or not, and in monitoring the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
NEUROLOGY PET/CT of the brain provides valuable information in diagnosing various forms of dementia. It is of great benefit in definitively diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease. It may also be used to localize areas in the brain causing epileptic seizures and to determine if surgery is an option for these patients.
In summary, the key benefits of PET/CT:
- Safe, non-invasive diagnostic procedure.
- With PET/CT, both scans are performed in one session meaning fewer office visits and shorter time on the imaging table for patients.
- Enhanced detection of disease resulting in fewer invasive diagnostic procedures.
- Precise staging of disease and accurate monitoring of cancer recurrences.
- Effective tracking of the results of treatment therapy.
- Open GEMINI GXL gantry promotes a more relaxed atmosphere and patient comfort.
- May lower overall cost of care.
Please see PET-FAQ’s for more information.
