Moffitt Expands Diagnostic Imaging Capabilities by Opening PET/CT Scanner

March 22, 2002

Tampa, FL -- H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute today announced the installation of a new state-of-the-art PET/CT diagnostic imaging system. The PET/CT, from Siemens Medical Systems, Inc, combines the premier technology from PET and CT to create an evolutionary new diagnostic imaging system. As the patient is transported through the scanner, the anatomically detailed information obtained from a CT scan is merged with the biological function recorded by the PET scanner to form not merely a photograph, but a biograph - an image that records living tissues and life processes. Moffitt is one of only a handful of health care organizations in the nation to acquire this new technology that dramatically improves doctors’ ability to diagnose and treat cancer.

The anatomical and biological information obtained from the biograph permits accurate tumor detection and localization for a variety of cancers, including melanoma, lymphoma, lung, colorectal, head and neck, and ovarian cancers. Other applications include reducing biopsy sampling errors, improvement of therapy planning, and assessment of response to treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The benefits to the patient are earlier diagnosis, accurate staging and localization, precise treatment and patient monitoring.

"The combination of CT and PET information in one imaging study permits us to more accurately identify, diagnose, and treat cancers,” said Robert Clark, M.D., chief of radiology at Moffitt. “This will ultimately allow us to provide better outcomes for our patients."

With the state-of-the-art images that biograph provides, patient outcomes are enhanced and unnecessary procedures are avoided. A biograph image also provides early detection of the recurrence of cancer, revealing tumors that may otherwise be obscured by the scarring that results from surgery and radiation therapy, particularly in the head and neck.

The entire biograph examination is generally performed in less than one hour, providing comprehensive diagnostic information to clinicians and attending physicians quickly. The system is designed to be very accessible and comfortable, while providing exceptional image quality and accurate diagnostic information.

Located on the campus of the University of South Florida, Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute is a world-renowned cancer treatment and research facility. Moffitt is the only National Cancer Institute designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in Florida. Its mission is to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer.

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