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Published in: European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging 1/2009

01-03-2009

A look ahead: PET/MR versus PET/CT

Authors: Gustav K. von Schulthess, Heinz-Peter W. Schlemmer

Published in: European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging | Special Issue 1/2009

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Abstract

Introduction

Integration of positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance (MR) has become a topic of increasing interest to the imaging community over the past two years.

Objectives

In this text, the authors attempt to distinguish facts from fiction concerning such integrated systems. Analysis of existing information of combined imaging on existing brain PET/MR systems and imaging experience with PET-computed tomography (CT) is reviewed. Various types of system integration of PET and MR are discussed with completely independent systems on one hand and completely integrated systems with the possibility of simultaneous data acquisition on the other hand. Furthermore, it is discussed, what simultaneous data acquisition with nuclear imaging systems combined with MR or CT really means, as technical simultaneity may not be relevant in light of the pharmacokinetics of the nuclear tracers used.

Discussion

The authors conclude that combining PET/MR is an interesting research endeavor with uncertain outcome. They argue that, while completely simultaneous brain applications are of research interest immediately, clinical applications do not currently warrant the construction of fully integrated systems. Systems adjacent to each other, where imaging tables are linked with a patient “shuttle” thereby requiring only patient translation but no repositioning, may be a good start to assess the value of integrated PET/MR.
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Metadata
Title
A look ahead: PET/MR versus PET/CT
Authors
Gustav K. von Schulthess
Heinz-Peter W. Schlemmer
Publication date
01-03-2009
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging / Issue Special Issue 1/2009
Print ISSN: 1619-7070
Electronic ISSN: 1619-7089
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00259-008-0940-9

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