PET/CT Treatment Planning

PET/CT (positron emission tomography/computerized tomography) is an integrated scanner combining PET functional imaging with the high resolution structural imaging of CT. This type of scanner allows for more accurate localization and grading of cancerous regions, is clinically superior to regular CT simulation and easier and more accurate for treatment planning and therapy.

A PET/CT scan also allows for distinguishing muscle versus the tumor/lymph nodes, and it accurately localizes “hot spots” for more precise and higher doses of radiation treatment during IMRT (intensity modulated radiation therapy) and IGRT (image guided radiation therapy).