While both are used to detect cancer, heart disease, or brain disorders, Digital PET Scan and conventional PET Scan have significant differences. Additionally, Digital PET Scan offers numerous advantages over conventional PET Scan.
What are the differences between Digital PET Scan and conventional PET Scan? What advantages does Digital PET Scan offer compared to analog PET Scan?
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Differences Between Digital PET Scan and Conventional PET Scan
PET Scan is an imaging technique introduced in the 1970s. For many years, PET Scan was used independently. However, in 2000, the first hybrid PET/CT device was introduced clinically. Since then, PET Scan technology has continuously evolved, with the latest advancement being the introduction of Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) as an alternative to standard photomultiplier tubes used in analog PET/CT Scan systems. This technological shift is one of the primary differences between Digital PET Scan and conventional PET Scan.
Digital PET Scan integrates a PET-CT system with SiPM detectors. It serves as a diagnostic imaging tool to assess biological functional information at the molecular level. Furthermore, Digital PET Scan plays a crucial role in detailed diagnoses for both oncological and non-oncological imaging procedures.
SiPM detectors in Digital PET Scan are smaller than standard photomultiplier tubes in conventional PET Scan. This allows Digital PET Scan to produce higher spatial resolution, full crystal coverage up to 100%, high sensitivity, noise-free imaging, and faster time resolution.
Advantages of Digital PET Scan Over Conventional PET Scan
Although the working principle of Digital PET Scan and conventional PET Scan is similar, some differences make Digital PET Scan a superior diagnostic tool for detecting cancer and other diseases.
Here are some key advantages of Digital PET Scan over conventional PET Scan:
- Lower Radiation Exposure: Digital PET Scan exposes patients to lower radiation levels compared to conventional PET Scan.
- Shorter Scan Time: The scanning process with Digital PET Scan is faster than conventional PET Scan.
- More Detailed Imaging Results: Digital PET Scan provides more detailed imaging results, allowing doctors to detect smaller lesions.
- Better Disease Progression Analysis: Digital PET Scan helps doctors gain a better understanding of disease progression, providing more detailed information on cancer staging and treatment effectiveness.
Procedure
Before undergoing a Digital PET Scan, radioactive isotopes are produced in a cyclotron. These isotopes are then combined with chemicals such as glucose, forming a compound known as a radiotracer.
The radiotracer is injected into the patient’s body, where it reaches areas that utilize the natural chemicals for biochemical activities. For example, tumor cells absorb glucose at a higher rate due to increased metabolic activity, appearing as bright spots during diagnosis.
A specialized camera or imaging device detects the radioactive emissions from the radiotracer, accurately generating images of organ structures and functions.
Next, a CT scan is performed to capture internal organ images from different angles using X-rays. A computer then combines data from both the PET and CT scans to create a 3D image of internal organs. These images reveal organ structures, functions, and any abnormalities present.
Digital PET Scan at Mandaya Puri Hospital
No need to travel abroad for a Digital PET Scan procedure, as this advanced technology is now available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
Our hospital is equipped with the latest Cyclotron and Digital PET/CT Scan Omno Legend facilities.
Additionally, the Digital PET/CT Scan facility at Mandaya Puri Hospital features a 360 Panorama Experience, ensuring a comfortable examination for patients.
If you are interested in undergoing a Digital PET/CT Scan, visit Mandaya Puri Hospital. Our team of specialist doctors is ready to answer all your questions about Digital PET/CT Scan technology.
Use the WhatsApp Chat feature, Book Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, available on Google Play and App Store, to facilitate your visit, check queue numbers, and access complete information.
