Published in:
01-03-2009
Combined PET/MRI: a new dimension in whole-body oncology imaging?
Authors:
Gerald Antoch, Andreas Bockisch
Published in:
European Journal of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging
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Special Issue 1/2009
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Abstract
Introduction
Hybrid imaging systems providing morphological and functional data in a single session have been available for oncological imaging for some time. So far, computed tomography (CT) has been the morphological method-of-choice for inclusion into these hybrid imaging systems. However, recently, research has focused on hardware-based fusion of function with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) rather than CT.
Objectives
Now that the first head-only positron emission tomography (PET)/MRI systems have been installed and whole-body systems are to be expected in the near future, potential indications in clinical oncology have to be addressed.
Discussion
This article discusses potential indications of PET/MRI in whole-body oncology imaging. Potential advantages and disadvantages compared with currently available hybrid imaging systems will be reviewed.