With an innovative, value-driven approach to diagnostic imaging and a strong relationship with GE Medical Systems, Orange County MRI houses the latest in PET/CT fusion multi-modality detection, image transfer, and monitoring equipment and software. Together, OCMRI and GE Medical Systems continue to work diligently to deliver a one-stop solution that combines industry-leading technologies with expert care and understanding of the needs of our patients, physicians, and health care providers alike.

Capturing Life....at the Speed of Light

The new Discovery™ LS PET-CT system generates high quality PET and CT images of a patient in a single study. Two image data sets are registered and fused to form a single image that shows the anatomical location from CT along with the metabolic activity of PET. This new system combines two industry-leading technologies, the GE Light Speed multi-slice CT system and the Advance NXi PET scanner, to deliver a new frontier in oncology imaging.

Added Benefits for Patients and Physicians

Physicians: Receive more data in less time for faster, more accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and treatment monitoring.

Patients: One exam can now provide the same information that would have required multiple exams before--confidence in patient diagnosis and treatments in less time, and at a lower cost to you and your health care provider.

POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY (PET)

What is a PET Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography, or PET, is one of the newest diagnostic imaging procedures. It produces three-dimensional images (shown below) of the body which highlight certain abnormalities, particularly cancerous tissues.

A radiopharmaceutical containing glucose (sugar), which is the body's fuel, is injected into the patient. After allowing sufficient time for the body to absorb the glucose, usually about 30 to 45 minutes, the patient is imaged by a large scanner. Abnormal tissues in the body will more actively absorb the labeled glucose, and will be specifically detected by the scanner. The information gathered is then fed into a powerful computer, which produces three-dimensional images.

PET scans can be used to diagnose disease and provide details regarding the stage of disease progression, thereby assisting physicians and their patients in determining treatment options.

Patient Experience

You should arrive at the center approximately 15 minutes before your appointment time for the usual screening procedures and paperwork. Before your exam, the PET technologist will obtain a brief medical history. Let the radiologist or technologist know if you have questions.

You will be asked to change into a patient gown. Your blood Glucose level will be measured. Then, an intravenous injection will be given to you while you are lying down. You will have a small amount of radioactivity in your body when you leave the facility.

After the injection, you will need to lie still and relaxed, without talking, for 30 to 45 minutes. This will allow time for any abnormal tissue to absorb the glucose radiopharmaceutical.

The technologist will then help you onto the examination table. The exam table will gently move into the opening of the scanner and will move through various automated positions over a period of about 45 minutes. You should feel nothing unusual during your exam. You will hear a whirring sound as the scanner operates, and you will be moved slightly after each section. It is important that you remain relaxed and still during the exam so the images do not blur. The technologist will speak to you through a two-way intercom system. You will be able to talk to the technologist if you need assistance at any time during the exam.

Exam Time

Although PET/CT exams are scheduled to minimize waiting time, unexpected delays may occur. Each examination is structured to the individual needs of the patient.

On average, each procedure lasts approximately 2 to 2½ hours.

Results

A specially trained radiologist will review and interpret the images and prepare a final report of findings to be sent to your referring physician who ordered the exam. Your physician can then explain to you what the findings mean.

Special Preparations

These are general guidelines. Please contact the OCMRI 24 hours prior to your appointment for detailed instructions. Office: 714-957-0317, E-mail: ocmri@ocmri.com.

It is very important that the glucose levels in your body be carefully managed prior to the examination. For this reason, you will be asked to adhere to the following preparations:

Nothing at all to eat for at least 6 hours prior to your appointment - not even chewing gum or breath mints. The nurse or technologist will check your blood sugar levels at the time of the appointment.

Diabetic patients (insulin dependent) will require individual physician consultation. Your blood sugar must be below 200. Be sure to bring your regular insulin with you to your appointment.

Limit your exercise and any physical exertion prior to the examination.

Take all regular medications.

Drink plenty of water to ensure hydration. You may be encouraged to drink more water after your arrival at the center.

You will then be asked to empty your bladder just before the examination.

If you have had previous diagnostic studies (MRI, CT scans, Ultrasound, X-ray, Bone scans) of the body part being evaluated, please bring those reports and films or request that they be sent to the center. These studies or reports are very helpful to the radiologist interpreting your PET/CT scan.

Tell your doctor or the technologist if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Discover the life capturing power of PET/CT scans and receive the real life answers you deserve to real life questions. Visit OCMRI's PET Patient web portal for the latest news, video/audio patient testimonials, and to contact a physician for a consultation.

To inquire about the life-capturing benefits of OCMRI's diagnostic imaging services

714-957-0317

E-Mail - ocmri@ocmri.com

Orange County MRI-PET-CT

17150 Euclid Street, Suite 101, Fountain Valley, CA 92708