Positron Emission Tomography Imaging

Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose or treat a variety of diseases, including many types of cancers, heart disease and certain other abnormalities within the body.

Depending on the type of nuclear medicine exam you are undergoing, the radiotracer is either injected into a vein, swallowed or inhaled as a gas and eventually accumulates in the organ or area of your body being examined, where it gives off energy in the form of gamma rays. This energy is detected by a device called a gamma camera, a (positron emission tomography) PET scanner and/or probe. These devices work together with a computer to measure the amount of radiotracer absorbed by your body and to produce special pictures offering details on both the structure and function of organs and tissues.

At Wake Radiology, nuclear medicine images can be superimposed with computed tomography (CT) to produce special views, a practice known as image fusion or co-registration. These views allow the information from two different studies to be correlated and interpreted on one image, leading to more precise information and accurate diagnoses. In addition, manufacturers are now making single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT-CT) and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET-CT) units that are able to perform both imaging studies at the same time. A PET scan measures important body functions, such as blood flow, oxygen use, and sugar (glucose) metabolism, to help doctors evaluate how well organs and tissues are functioning. CT imaging uses special X-ray equipment, and in some cases a contrast material, to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These images can then be interpreted by a radiologist on a computer monitor as printed images. CT imaging provides excellent anatomic information.

More accurate diagnostic testing for cancer

With outpatient Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) capabilities close at hand—in a private office setting—patients now have easy access to this important imaging modality. Patients no longer have to go to a large health center for this advanced imaging, and we can usually accommodate patients very quickly, so there is little delay in care.

Wake Radiology PET-CT Scan

Our fellowship-trained radiologists perform the full complement of PET·CT imaging. With their fast and accurate responses, patients remain the focal point of care. A joint venture with WakeMed Health and Hospitals, our PET·CT location allows easy access from all points in the Triangle. It is located at Wake Radiology’s Cary office suites, just off US 1 South, one block from WakeMed Cary Hospital. Patient comfort and patient confidence are very important to us. Patients find our PET-CT suite uniquely reassuring, with a wall of windows that offers an outdoor panorama. Our staff includes highly trained technologists who understand this advanced imaging technology and are attentive to the needs of both patients and referring physicians.

PET·CT Indications

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) currently cover the following indications for PET. However, for patients participating in the National Oncologic PET Registry (NOPR), ovarian, pancreatic, small cell lung, testicular cancers, and “all other cancers and indications not previously specified” are covered under their current “coverage with evidence development” policy. Indications are documented in the National Coverage Determination, Section 220.6.

PET·CT Clinical Conditions

• Breast cancer
• Esophageal cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Head & neck cancers
• Lung cancer
• Lymphoma
• Melanoma
• Solitary pulmonary nodule
• Thyroid cancer
• Cervical