Positron Emission Tomography Services Now Available at South Central

South Central Regional Medical Center performed its first positron emission tomography (PET) scan in May. This unique, noninvasive imaging technology produces three-dimensional images of the heart, brain, or other organs. PET scans are often used in the diagnosis and management of cancer, brain disorders, and heart disease.

PET scan images can provide information on blood flow, oxygen consumption, glucose metabolism, and concentrations of various compounds in selected organs. Heart-related uses of the PET scan include evaluating the function of blood flow to the heart, in order to detect any signs of coronary artery disease. Other uses include scanning the brain for injury after a head trauma or for the presence of a tumor.

“No other imaging technology has comparable potential, because PET has the unique ability to image functional processes, such as tumor metabolic activity,” according to Dr. Frederick Vial, board-certified radiologist at South Central. The ability to image glucose metabolism in the body is important, since most malignant tumors exhibit a high glucose metabolic activity.

South Central has seen great advancements in diagnostic imaging technology. The addition of PET scan services illustrates South Central’s continued commitment to providing advanced medical technology to the residents of South Central Mississippi.

Today, South Central has five board-certified radiologists who utilize this new imaging technology to diagnose a variety of diseases. They are Dr. Clyde Allen, Dr. Dana Chard, Dr. Ronald Gatewood, Dr. Peeler Lacey, and Dr. Frederick Vial.

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