Franciscan Health Offers The Latest PET/CT Technology, A Comforting Option For Cancer Patients In Munster

MUNSTER, Indiana - More comfortable surroundings and quicker scan times are drawing patients to the new permanent PET/CT scanner at Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munster.

PET/CT scans are important imaging tools in helping to detect and diagnose cancer and determine the best course of treatment. Previously, Franciscan Physician Network offices relied on shared medical mobile PET/CT services, but the mobile experience is not necessarily for every patient. Stojan Trajkovski, imaging services manager at Franciscan Health Munster, says the confined space of a mobile scanner can be difficult for patients who are claustrophobic. In Munster, a larger space surrounding the scanner and dimmable lighting add comfort to the process.

"When they come here, the whole experience is better, and it's made that much better by a shorter scan time," Trajkovski said, adding that scans are averaging about 20 minutes, compared to older units where scans can take 35 to 40 minutes.

The permanent scanner, which began operating on July 24, 2018, is the Discovery IQ from GE Healthcare. It's actually two pieces in one, with a 16-slice diagnostic quality CT scanner in the front and a four-ring PET scanner in the back.

The scanner helps make Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munster a one-stop shop to better serve Northwest Indiana patients, who might otherwise seek treatment in Chicago. Meanwhile, the mobile scanner continues operating out of Franciscan Health Crown Point for patients who prefer the convenience of closer services.

Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munter's PET/CT department is currently open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. With additional demand, the goal is to be open Monday through Friday to best serve patients and physician partners.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (219) 933-2635.