Unique Outpatient Service
Our Park Central location offers the only PET/MRI in an outpatient setting in Arizona. This makes the procedure more convenient and affordable for patients, with shorter wait times to schedule your scan and faster turnaround for your results. Being an outpatient facility also helps reduce out-of-pocket costs compared to hospital-based scans.
What's the Difference Between MRI and PET/MRI?
An MRI primarily looks at the structure and anatomy of your body. It produces detailed images of organs, tissues, muscles, bones, and blood vessels. A PET/MRI combines a PET scan (which shows cellular activity and metabolism) with an MRI (which shows detailed anatomy) in one test. While an MRI only shows a still image of areas in the body, a PET/MRI shows those areas of the body in action.
How It Works
During the PET/MRI scan, a small amount of radioactive tracer is given through an IV. The PET portion of the scan shows how your cells are working, highlighting areas of abnormal activity. At the same time, the MRI portion captures detailed images of your organs and tissues. By combining these two imaging techniques in one session, doctors can see both the structure and function of your body in a single test.
Benefits of PET/MRI
PET/MRI provides several advantages over separate PET and MRI scans:
- Accurate detection and assessment of abnormalities throughout the body
- Faster diagnosis and treatment planning since both scans are done at once
- Fewer appointments—saving time and reducing hassle
- Lower radiation exposure compared to traditional PET/CT scans
What to Expect
The scan is painless, noninvasive, and safe. You will be positioned on the imaging table, and the technologist will guide you through the procedure. After the scan, you can return to your normal activities.
PET/MRI is an advanced imaging option that allows doctors to find problems earlier, plan treatment more effectively, and provide you with the highest-quality care in a convenient outpatient setting.
