What is PET/CT?
PET: Positron Emission Tomography is a form of diagnostic imaging designed to interpret the metabolism and function of cell. PET uses a small amount of radioactive substance injected into the blood stream. Images are then acquired to evaluate function of the cells within the body.
CT: Computerized tomography produces detailed pictures of the body’s internal organs and structures. CT scanners send x-rays through the body at different angles. These x-rays are then measured by surrounding detectors, and an anatomical image is produced.
PET/CT Fusion: Integrates PET and CT technologies into a single device, making it possible to obtain both anatomical and biological data during a single exam. This integrated approach permits accurate tumor detection.
Offered exams:
Oncology
PET/CT is used primarily to detect cancer. The radioactive injection is absorbed by cancerous tissues.
Neurology
PET/CT scans can be used to evaluate patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, seizure disorders, and brain tumors.
Cardiology
Scans of the heart can be used to determine blood flow to the heart muscle and help evaluate signs of coronary heart disease. Patients are also scanned for cardiac viability prior to bypass surgery. Patients with sarcoidosis are scanned to evaluate the extent of their disease.
Other scans performed include
C-11 Choline for prostate cancer and GA-68 DOTA for neuroendocrine tumors.
Equipment:
We have two American College of Radiology (ACR) accredited Siemens Biograph 16-slice PET/CT scanners. We have the ability to incorporate our PET/CT images for Radiation Therapy CT simulation purposes and reduce the radiation exposure to our cancer patients.
The scanner features a large gantry opening and short tunnel in an aesthetically pleasing room. The weight limit is 500 lbs.
Staff:
All technologists are required to be board certified by the American Registry for Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) for Radiography and Nuclear Medicine. Most of our technologists are dually certified by the ARRT and the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB).