The first digital positron emission computed tomography scanner has appeared in Russia

Russia's first digital positron emission computed tomography scanner has been launched at the Institute of Nuclear Medicine in Khimki near Moscow. The new generation device is designed for diagnostics of oncologic diseases.

The main advantage over the previous ones is that it allows combining two types of diagnostics: positron emission tomography (a method of nuclear medicine) with computed tomography (a method of radiation diagnostics). As a result of this combination, it is possible to see exactly where the tumor is located and how actively it is growing.

The new CT scanner is used to monitor treatment, assess the extent of the process and detect recurrences. And another important plus: it transmits image data digitally. This gives exceptional clarity with visualization of the smallest changes and allows for more accurate quantitative analysis. Everything is extremely important for evaluating the effectiveness of the treatment and planning further actions.

By increasing the speed of image data transmission, scanning time is reduced. This means that the dose of radiopharmaceuticals administered to the patient and the dose of radiation exposure is reduced. And this is very important, since during the treatment period patients need to undergo such a study more than once.

It is appropriate to note that the advanced technologies and the interior of the space station in the room where the study is conducted reflect the level of modern medicine available to Russians. At the Institute of Nuclear Medicine in Khimki, patients can undergo positron emission computed tomography under compulsory medical insurance programs. For the study, a patient only needs to obtain a referral from his or her attending oncologist.

Last year, more than 11,000 patients were examined at the Institute's radioisotope and radiation diagnostics department under compulsory medical insurance programs.