PET/CT at the Shaw

Pet/CT at the Shaw offers technology that combines two distinct forms of imaging the human body.

The PET (Positron Emission Tomography Imaging) and CT (Computerized Tomography) scan allows physicians to measure the body’s abnormal molecular cell activity to detect cancer (such as breast cancer, lung cancer, colorectal cancer, lymphoma, melanoma and other skin cancers).  PET/CT scans are simple, painless, and fast, offering patients and their families life-saving information that helps physicians detect and diagnose disease early and quickly begin treatment.

In one continuous full-body scan (usually about 30 minutes), PET captures images of miniscule changes in the body’s metabolism caused by the growth of abnormal cells, while CT images simultaneously allow physicians to pinpoint the exact location, size and shape of the diseased tissue or tumor.   Small lesions or tumors are detected with PET and then precisely located with CT.

PET/CT Applications

• Determine extent of disease
• Determine location of disease for biopsy, surgery or treatment planning.
• Assess response to and effectiveness of treatments
• Detect residual or recurrent disease
• May assist in avoiding invasive diagnostic procedures

There are Tremendous Benefits of Having a Combined PET/CT Scan

• Earlier diagnosis
• Accurate staging and localization
• Precise treatment and monitoring

With the high-tech images that the PET/CT scanner provides, patients are given a better chance at a positive outcome and avoid unnecessary procedures.   A PET/CT image also provides early detection of the recurrence of cancer, revealing tumors that might otherwise be obscured by scar tissue resulting from surgery and radiation therapy, particularly in the head and neck.   The combination PET/CT provides physicians a more complete picture of what is occurring in the body – both anatomically and metabolically – at the same time.

For more information on PET/CT at the Shaw call 970-569-7429.