A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging method that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the body. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a diagnostic, imaging procedure that provides physicians with information about your body’s chemistry, cell function and disease location–information not seen through computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray, blood test or physical examination. Unlike CT or MRI, which look at anatomy or body structure, PET scans study body function or the biology of diseases.

The new mobile digital unit, contracted through Shared Medical Services, has several key features to benefit patients, according to NUMC Medical Imaging Manager Jane Stueber, RT(R)(M)(CT):

• Full digitalization with a larger field of view

• The highest resolution available today

The country’s first mobile digital PET/CT will be at NUMC every Monday and every other Thursday.

• Faster scan times

• Lower radiation doses to the patients

• A 550-pound table weight limit, making for a more spacious environment

• In-bore lighting

• In-room sound system

• An improved interior atmosphere to help patients relax during what can be an anxious time

“NUMC and Allina Health have a reputation for continually upgrading technology and services to improve the patient experience and provide better outcomes,” Stueber said. “This newest investment is just the most recent example of that commitment to the best care possible.”

The new scanner will start coming to NUMC in June and is one of only a few outstate hospitals in Minnesota to be utilizing the updated technology at this point.

The primary services utilizing the PET/CT scanner is medical oncology, pulmonology and surgery, Stueber said.

Patients utilizing the new scanner will not notice a change in procedure from the previous PET/CT scanner and the cost to the patient for this improved technology is also unchanged.

To learn more about Medical Imaging at NUMC, go to allinahealth.org/newulm, select “Services” and search for Medical Imaging.