Thursday , March 28 2024

PET and CT Twice the Information in Half the Time

PET and CT Twice Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a type of nuclear medicine used to analyze and measure specific vital bodily functions, including glucose metabolism, blood flow and oxygen use, which can be telling indicators of organ and tissue function. It is also a key diagnostic tool in diagnosing many types of cancers and Alzheimer’s disease, and certain other abnormalities within the body.
Computed Tomography (commonly known as CT or “Cat Scan”) creates images in rapid succession,
allowing 2- and 3-dimensional views, or “slices,” of organs and structures, providing excellent anatomic information.
The revolutionary PET/CT scan combines these two key technologies in one of the most complete and advanced diagnostic systems ever created. The PET/CT has proven to pinpoint the anatomic location of abnormal metabolic activity, and provide more accurate diagnoses than the two tests can independently.
The PET/CT scan creates multi-dimensional images that allow for exceptional localization of precancerous, cancerous and certain other diseased cells of the skin, lungs, colon, head and neck, breasts, ovaries, lymph nodes, testicles, thyroid, pancreas and esophagus, even in their earliest stages. PET/CT is also used to localize activity in patients with seizure disorders, evaluate stroke damage, and differentiate Alzheimer’s from other diseases.
RAO’s diagnostic team of 19 board certified radiologists includes nine PET/CT specialists and the area’s only 16-slice PET/CT scanner with the newest LSO crystal, providing state-of-the-art speed and accuracy.
“PET/CT offers greater physical and emotional comfort than the two tests can separately,” says RAO radiologist Dr. Ralf Barckhausen. “Since both scans are done simultaneously in one visit, it not only saves time, it also provides more complete complimentary information, strengthening the probability of early detection and reducing the chances of stressful false alarms.”
“When performed individually, these tests necessitate that a high percentage of patients receive repeat scans,” says radiologist Dr. Malcolm Williamson. “Combining these tests reduces the incidence of inconclusive data and repeat testing. This is a phenomenal improvement.”
When medical treatment is required, PET/CT creates a solid foundation for the fast, accurate planning of targeted therapy. Because the images are digitally stored, they can be instantly shared with your primary care physician, specialist, all Marion County hospitals and RAO outpatient centers to ensure the most rapid and well-coordinated care.
For the optimum in PET/CT diagnostic services, as well as breast imaging, musculoskeletal radiology, neuroradiology and vascular and interventional radiology, ask your doctor to refer you to RAO and discover the difference technology combined with experience can make.
Radiology  Associates of Ocala, P.A.
(352) 671-4300
www.RAOcala.com

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