To enhance diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy and yield better outcomes in oncology, cardiology and nuro-sciences, Apollo Hospitals is installing a PET-CT SCAN at its Hyderabad centre in a joint investment venture with Gleneagles Group of Singapore. The device, which costs Rs 30 crore, is likely to be functional by early September.
PET-CT SCAN is a new diagnostic medical imaging device that produces a biograph, an image that records in exquisite detail the living tissues and life processes. The instrument combines premier technology from two imaging modalities PET and CT, making it possible to produce a biograph image and measurements. The biograph reveals detailed anatomy and biological processes at the molecular level of internal organs and tissues from one single non-invasive diagnostic procedure.
PET-CT SCAN sets the stage for enhanced oncology disease management by reducing the number of diagnostic tests, providing faster and more complete clinical information resulting in improved quality of patient care and lower medical costs. Earlier diagnosis and detection, more accurate disease staging and improved therapy planning and monitoring are the key areas where the scanner revolutionizes patient care. It can be useful in the diagnosis of lung, esophageal, colorectal, head and neck, breast cancers, lymphoma and melanoma etc.
Apart from Oncology, the device is useful in non-invasive diagnostic option for cardiologists. It gives precise information about the structure and functioning of different parts of the heart without any invasive procedure, which is useful to people who are critically ill.
Nurosciences is another important area of PET-CT Scan application. Precise location of anatomical and functional disturbances in the complex environment of the brain gives the physician a definitive advantage over other diagnostic options available today.
As per the sources at Apollo, the device is the first of its kind in Asia. The company has announced this initiative on the eve of 16th anniversary of its Hyderabad centre.