When people go to a radiology lab to have scans done, they may be shocked at the variety of options they have available. In the past, the CT scan was the only option you had, but now there are two different scans that are somewhat similar. These scans in Riverhead NY can help you find out if there is anything wrong and where the problem is so you can be diagnosed and start a treatment plan immediately, which could save your life.
PET Scan
One of the biggest differences between these two types of scans is the cost. Because the PET scan takes longer, up to four hours, and uses a lot more radiation to complete the scan, it will cost you more. Radioactive tracers with positrons are used for this type of imaging, and the positrons are tracked with a system that will give the doctor and you a 3D image. This can make it a lot easier for the doctor to find out where the anomaly or problem is because he or she can see a detailed three-dimensional image of the body part in question. The PET scan can also scan images of the biological processes in your body, which no other scan can do. This, in essence, will answer the question “how is the body part working?”
The PET scan is considered a better option by many doctors, because it can detect earlier any problems, especially cancer. When people are diagnosed with cancer, it is crucial that they get diagnosed correctly and quickly, because this can help save their lives. It may also mean fewer chemotherapy treatments and other treatments that can be damaging to the body. Therefore, it is beneficial, though there are a few risks.
CT Scan
The CT scan costs a little less than a PET scan, but that is because it doesn’t give such a detailed scan as the PET scan will. It also takes a lot less time, with about five minutes total and 30 seconds only for scanning. With the CT scan, you are permitted to move slightly if required, while, with the PET scan you cannot move (for a lot longer).
There is also a lot less radiation exposure with this scan, though it is still not recommended for women who are pregnant and children unless required. This type of scan works well for most people and provides a lot of detail abut the bone and some soft tissues.
Requiring a PET or CT scan in Riverhead, NY, then you should definitely consider North Fork Radiology, as they have both options available.
