University of Rochester Medicine’s www.urmc.rochester.edu Golisano Children’s Hospital www.urmc.rochester.edu/chilrens-hospital.aspx recently became the first children’s hospital in the country to administer an integrated PET-MRI scan to a patient. The integrated PET-MRI scanner combines two common imaging procedures into one. This reduces radiation exposure to a minimum and allows for a dual measurement of structure and metabolism.
PET-MRI technology has emerged in recent years as a valuable tool for radiologists. PET scans enable providers to see how the body is carrying out metabolic functions while MRI scans and provides a detailed three dimensional image of the body.
Both scans are often necessary to provide the most accurate information, particularly in the fields of oncology, cardiology, and neurology. Combining the scans also enable children to go through just one procedure, rather than two.
While the scanner represents the most advanced technology available, steps were also taken to make sure the machine and the entire imaging suite is welcoming and kid friendly. The PET-MRI is labeled the “S.S. Rochester” and is decorated to look like a pirate ship.
Nearby, a CT scanner is dressed up to resemble a lighthouse. Elsewhere in the pediatric imaging suite, colorful wall decals, calming music, and mounted iPads help put children at ease before, during, and after their procedures.