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P EACEHEA L TH S T . JOHN
Medical Center now has
advanced positron emission tomography/computed
tomography (PET/CT). This medical imaging technique
combines in a single system both a PET scanner and an
X-ray CT scanner. The PET/CT “time of flight large-bore
technology” provides more accurate images in less time
and with better patient comfort.
The new technology uses the metabolic uptake of the body
to show any abnormalities that may be present with more
precise anatomical localization. It helps more accurately
differentiate between benign and malignant processes.
Hasan Osman, MD, specializes in nuclear medicine at
PeaceHealth St. John. “For more accurate staging, both
aspects are needed,” Dr. Osman says. “Not just anatomical
imaging, but also functional imaging—to more accurately
assess and treat the patient.”
Earlier diagnosis and more accurate staging are crucial
for better patient care and outcomes.
ENHANCED PATIENT EXPERIENCE
The process takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and the
patient can breathe normally while images are being
acquired. The new PET/CT scanner is faster and reduces
radiation to the patient.
Many patients from the coast use imaging services at
PeaceHealth St. John. This cutting-edge technology is
brought closer to them.
LIFESAVING
Advanced imaging technology is good news. It catches tumors
earlier, allowing for faster and more accurate diagnosis and
staging for more tailored care for the individual patient.
The PET/CT has become an integral part of the patient’s
workup for detecting and accurately staging tumors
throughout the body. In addition, PET brain scans are
useful in differentiating types of dementia, as well as being
PET/CT combines speed, accuracy and comfort
The Kearney Breast Center at
PeaceHealth St. John Medical
Center is the only facility in
southwest Washington now
offering C-View technology.
This advanced imaging
technology delivers:
■ ■
Less radiation
■ ■
Less time under compression
■ ■
Better detection of
abnormalities
■ ■
Reduced recalls for
repeat mammograms
RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE
The Kearney Breast Center
was recently recognized as a
Breast Center of Excellence
by the American College of
Radiology. A patient shared: “I
thank you for your wonderful
caring service. Everyone was so
kind and very professional and
reassuring. I rate your staff
and Center—excellent!”
Simply
the best
Remember: October
is National Breast Cancer
Awareness Month and a
great time to schedule
your mammogram—or to
encourage someone you
love to schedule theirs. For
an appointment, call
360-414-2701
.
able to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease earlier than any other
imaging modality. Cardiac PET scans are also useful for
assessing cardiovascular diseases.
IMPROVED TECHNOLOGY
Some features of the new PET/CT include:
■ ■
Speed.
PET/CT enhances patient comfort with a shorter
scan time while providing a fast, accurate diagnosis.
■ ■
Accuracy.
“Time of flight” PET/CT scanners improve
the ability to assess and diagnose smaller lesions.
■ ■
Safety.
Radiation dose reduction enhances
patient safety.
■ ■
Largest bore.
This maximizes patient comfort, in
particular for patients who are claustrophobic, without
compromising imaging quality.
■ ■
Shared capabilities.
It combines two technologies in
a single, comfortable system.
Hasan Osman, MD
Nuclear Medicine
PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center
1615 Delaware St.
Longview, WA
360-747-5900
www.peacehealth.org3