Comprehensive Summary of the Article: “PET-CT Seeing Increasing Adoption, and Now More Affordable Systems Have Facilities Taking a Closer Look”
Imaging ,January 2025.
Comprehensive Summary of the Article: “PET-CT Seeing Increasing Adoption, and Now More Affordable Systems Have Facilities Taking a Closer Look”
Increasing Adoption of PET-CT in Cardiology
The American Society of Nuclear Cardiology (ASNC) reports growing adoption of positron emission tomography (PET) in nuclear cardiac imaging, with many experts predicting it could become the standard for nuclear cardiac assessments in the next decade. PET offers superior image quality compared to single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), along with coronary flow reserve (CFR) quantification, which is valuable for evaluating microvascular disease. However, past barriers like high costs of radiotracers and technical limitations slowed its adoption.
Advancements in PET-CT Technology
Recent technological advancements have resolved prior issues:
• Improved hybrid PET-CT systems with CT attenuation correction enable faster imaging and higher patient throughput.
• New FDA-cleared radiotracers have become more widely available.
• PET-CT systems now integrate CT-derived anatomical data, enhancing lesion evaluation and supporting decisions about revascularization strategies (e.g., PCI vs. bypass surgery).
Comparison: Dedicated PET vs. PET-CT Systems
• Dedicated PET systems handle 12 patients/day, while PET-CT can manage 20+ exams/day.
• PET-CT systems enable opportunistic coronary calcium scoring, adding diagnostic value and potential revenue.
Affordability and Innovation with Positron’s NeuSight PET-CT
Positron, a pioneer in PET technology, has launched the NeuSight PET-CT, which combines affordability with cutting-edge features:
• Compact design, high sensitivity, and seamless integration with advanced diagnostic software.
• Ideal for cardiovascular, oncological, and neurological applications.
• Affordable pricing model includes rental options and all-inclusive support services.
• Capable of significantly enhancing productivity, with throughput up to 200 scans/month.
Future Launch: Positron’s Affinity 4D PET-CT
Expected in mid-2025, the Affinity 4D system will introduce:
• LYSO crystal technology for improved clarity and resolution.
• AI-enhanced motion monitoring, respiratory gating, and advanced algorithms to reduce radiation and optimize workflows.
Benefits of PET-CT Over SPECT
PET-CT offers substantial advantages:
• Higher image quality and diagnostic specificity.
• Noninvasive coronary flow and myocardial flow reserve (MFR) analysis.
• Improved evaluation of microvascular disease and ischemia with non-obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA).
• Reduction in unnecessary diagnostic catheterizations.
Clinical Impact and Success Stories
Cardiologists and centers utilizing Positron systems have reported significant clinical and operational benefits:
• At Niagara Falls Memorial Hospital, PET scans reduced chest pain-related mortality from 15% to below 4%.
• PET imaging has proven valuable in managing patients, avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures, and identifying revascularization candidates.
Outlook for PET-CT
With its improved efficiency, affordability, and diagnostic capabilities, PET-CT systems like Positron’s NeuSight and Affinity are poised to drive wider adoption. These systems address the increasing demand for high-quality imaging while maintaining cost-effectiveness, marking a transformative era in nuclear cardiac imaging.
