Positron emission tomography – commonly known as PET scanning – is proving to be a valuable tool when it comes to diagnosing and staging various forms of cancer. PET scanning is especially beneficial when it is used in conjunction with other scanning technologies and diagnostic techniques such as mammography, biopsy, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT).

"Studies are showing that PET scanning significantly increases diagnostic accuracy," commented Southeast Missouri Hospital Radiology Director Tom Welch. He noted that diagnostic accuracy for virtually all types of cancer is substantially higher when conventional imaging techniques are augmented with PET scanning.

The PET scanner at Southeast Missouri Hospital, which has been in service at the Hospital since early 2002, is among the most technologically advanced in the nation, providing physicians with images that are unsurpassed by any other PET unit in the region. Recent digital upgrades to the scanner’s computer hardware and software are making it possible for authorized physicians to immediately access scanned images from remote locations via modems and computer terminals.

Welch says there have been numerous instances in recent months in which physicians using Southeast’s PET scanner have been able to diagnose cancer and other diseases which were not detected with other diagnostic technologies alone. "When PET is used in conjunction with CT, MRI or other technologies, detection rates increase dramatically," he commented.

One example of PET scanner’s superior imaging capability is its use among women with breast cancer. "PET offers a superior evaluation of the extent of disease following initial diagnosis and nodal dissection," explained Radiologist Mark L. Gates, M.D., Chairman of Southeast’s Department of Radiology. "PET can replace the standard imaging regimen of bone scans and CT scans as it is more sensitive than both modalities in determining the full extent of disease."
Dr. Gates added that full-body PET scans can be used to monitor the effectiveness of oncology therapy by assessing the effect of chemotherapy during the treatment cycle. "This allows a change in the regimen much sooner if it is shown not to be effective," he commented.

Not only is PET scanning an effective tool for diagnostic imaging, but it is also extremely safe as well. A recent study reported by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists reported that over the last 20 years since PET’s development as an imaging technology, there has not been a single reported medical complication related to either the scanning equipment or the material injected into the body as part of the PET scanning process.

For more information about PET, ask your doctor or call Southeast’s radiology department at (573) 651-5543.