Patients at the Providence Regional Cancer System Lacey Cancer Center who need Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan are now being seen in a new mobile unit outside the center.
“This unit will allow us to see additional patients, such as those with prostate cancer, while we reduce scan times and radiation dose for the patient,” said Diagnostic Imaging Director Dennis Mikes.
Improvements with the new scanner, which will be used on cancer patients needing to be staged for radiation or chemotherapy, include:
- Acquisition time is half the old PET/CT (going from 25-50 minutes, to 10-25 minutes)
- Improved accuracy. Can now easily detect lesions less than 5mm in diameter; previously 10mm
- Reduced dose for patients and staff
- Capable of PSMA (Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen) imaging
Providence Regional Cancer System – Lacey is located at 4524 Third Ave. SE in Lacey. For more information, call 360-754-3934.
“This equipment, along with our dedicated physician and caregivers, allows us to provide best-in-class care close to home,” said Ryan Moore, senior director of Oncology for Providence South Puget Sound.
The Providence Regional Cancer System has three oncology locations in South Puget Sound: Lacey, Aberdeen and Centralia. The 175 caregivers and 26 providers have diagnosed and treated thousands of patients.
Services provided by the Providence Regional Cancer System include:
- Medical and Radiation oncology
- Free patient-navigation services, support groups, social workers, counseling and more
Providence wants you to know how important screenings and early detection is to diagnosis and treatment of cancer. Follow “Providence Olympia” on Facebook or go to the Providence Regional Cancer System-Lacey website for more information.