RWJ Hamilton provides on-site PET/CT technology, the most advanced imaging technology available for cancer detection and staging.  PET (Position Emission Tomography) is able to detect actively growing cancer cells, enabling the process of staging cancer, while CT (Computerized Tomography) provides a detailed anatomic image which demonstrates the size, shape and location of abnormal cancerous growths.  RWJ Hamilton  is the first in the region to offer this advanced technology. Accredited by ICANL.

CT (computer tomography), sometimes called CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body, and then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.

As with other nuclear medicine procedures, a PET/CT scan requires a painless injection of a radioactive tracer called FDG.  PET/CT scanning excels in oncology applications, but also has indications in cardiology and neurology as well.  The benefits of a PET/CT scan are:

• Earlier diagnosis
• Accurate staging and localization
• Precise treatment and monitoring

For more information on the PET/CT testing, visit http://www.rwjhamilton-petct.org.