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Doctors often turn to MRI and PET scans to accurately diagnose heart conditions, infections, and cancers. These tests are often scheduled in conjunction with each other to provide the most accurate picture. The guide below provides a breakdown of each procedure so you can understand why they’re prescribed together.

What Are PET Scans?

Before a positron emission tomography (PET) scan, the radiologist injects the patient with a tracer known as radioactive glucose. As the body’s cells absorb this sugar, they expend energy.

The rate at which the cells use the energy dictates how they show up on the PET scan, telling a doctor how the body functions. Cancerous cells, for example, need to use more energy to take in the sugars. The rate of absorption can also point to infections and issues in the cardiovascular system.

What Are MRI Scans?

mriWhile a PET scan looks at issues on a cellular level, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans show organs and other soft tissues in detail. MRI equipment uses radio waves and magnetic fields to take photos of the body from multiple angles, looking at soft tissues the way an X-ray looks at bones. 

The numerous photos the machine captures are compiled into a 3D image that reveals any tumors and irregularities. By showing the shape of the organs and blood vessels, an MRI scan gives context to the cellular results shown in the PET scan.

 

If you need to schedule an MRI or PET scan, turn to Main Street Radiology. With three locations across Flushing and Bayside, NY, they provide accurate pictures of patients’ internal health. The facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology to provide a comfortable and informative experience. Learn more about their MRI services by visiting their website, or call (718) 428-1500 to make an appointment at their Bayside location. 

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