Diagnostic imaging is crucial in the fight against cancer, providing vital information to help doctors detect, diagnose, stage, treat, and monitor the disease. At Avita, advanced imaging technologies are used to provide comprehensive patient care.
What is Diagnostic Imaging?
Diagnostic imaging uses various technologies to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. These images help visualize tumors, assess their characteristics, and monitor treatment response.
Common Imaging Tests
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Uses X-rays and a computer to create 3D images, useful for identifying tumors, their size, shape, and location.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Employs strong magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images, particularly effective for evaluating soft tissues like the brain, spine, and breast.
- PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material (tracer) that is absorbed by highly active cells like cancer cells, allowing visualization of metabolic activity.
- Ultrasound (Sonography): Utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs and tissues, aiding in identifying tumors and guiding biopsies.
- X-ray: A common imaging method that uses low doses of radiation to create images of bones, tissues, and organs, helpful for looking for tumors or cancer.
- Mammogram: A specialized X-ray exam of the breast used for screening and diagnosing breast disease.
How Diagnostic Imaging Supports Cancer Care
- Detection and Diagnosis: Imaging helps find tumors and abnormalities, even in their early stages. This allows for quicker diagnosis and prompt intervention.
- Staging: Imaging tests provide information about the extent of the cancer, including the size and location of the tumor and whether it has spread to other areas (staging).
- Treatment Planning: Based on detailed images, medical teams can tailor the most effective treatment plan, which may include surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
- Treatment Monitoring: Regular imaging scans help monitor how well a treatment is working and make necessary adjustments to optimize care.
- Biopsy Guidance: Imaging can guide biopsy procedures, ensuring accurate tissue collection for diagnosis.
- Detection of Recurrence: Imaging is used in follow-up care to detect any signs of cancer recurrence early.
Our state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging provides our patients with the best possible care. Early access to imaging provides patients with timely early detection, treatment, and monitoring.