Medical Imaging

Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

Mountain States Tumor Institute provides PET scanning services within the MVMC Diagnostic Imaging department. A powerful imaging tool, a single PET scan can detect cancer almost anywhere in the body. PET also helps determine whether cancer therapy is working.

Isn’t a mammogram enough to tell me I don’t have cancer?
While mammography is the most important screening tool for early detection, its accuracy depends on many factors, from breast tissue density to the size of the tumor. Mammography is less effective for women who have dense, fiborous breasts or who have implants. PET is one way to detect cancer in these women more easily.

How is a PET scan different, and what can it do for me?
PET exposes cancer earlier and more accurately than x-ray, CT, or MRI. The PET image can help tell your doctor whether a tumor is benign or malignant, andif the cancer has spread to other parts of your body.

How will I know if I need a PET scan?
Many circumstances may warrant having your doctor order a PET scan.

• If there are lingering questions about whether you have breast cancer.

• If you have already been diagnosed with breast cancer, a single whole-body PET scan can search for cancer throughout the body

• If you are receiving treatment, PET provides quick feedback on how your body is responding, and later, whether the cancer has returned

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