“Patient’s well-being is our goal” – this motto has guided all activities of the Molecular Imaging and Technology Development Laboratory Ltd. from the very beginning, which is fully owned by the Medical University of Białystok. The year 2024 was a period of intense work, innovation, and continuous improvement in the quality of medical care. From the perspective of the past twelve months, we can confidently state that our mission – providing patients with the latest diagnostic solutions – has been achieved with full commitment and success.
The year 2024 marks a time of continuation and development of our activities. We introduced innovative molecular imaging technologies and modern diagnostic methods that enable even more accurate diagnoses. Our goal, as always, was to provide patients with access to the most advanced diagnostic methods, such as PET/MR, PET/CT, MR, and CT. Each of these methods has unique advantages that significantly impact patient support at various stages of diagnosis and treatment. From the beginning of 2024 until the publication of this article, more than 21,000 patients have been examined in our BioSkaner and LOM Scan facilities.
PET/MR Examination: Unique in the country
We are one of only two centers in Poland where PET/MR examinations are performed. Our PET/MR scanner, the Biograph mMR, unique in the country, is a key element of our exceptional diagnostic offering. With the mMR scanner, we can conduct examinations that combine two advanced technologies – magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET). While the PET/MR examination is more time-consuming than traditional methods, it provides exceptionally precise images of both the anatomical structure of tissues and their function and metabolism. This is a crucial method that enables faster detection of pathological changes and early treatment of many diseases.
PET/CT: Precise Oncology and Neurology Diagnostics
Our PET/CT facility, equipped with the GE Discovery 710 scanner, offers precise oncological and neurological examinations. The combination of computed tomography (CT) with positron emission tomography (PET) allows for detailed information about the structure and metabolism of organs and systems in the patient’s body. The PET/CT examination has wide applications in detecting, locating, and monitoring tumors, as well as in diagnosing heart and brain diseases.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Precise Diagnostics Without Radiation
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a modern, safe, and accurate diagnostic method that does not use X-ray radiation. Our facilities are equipped with three innovative MRI scanners, including the 3-tesla Biograph mMR, as well as the MAGNETOM Vida and MAGNETOM Sola scanners, all provided by the market leader, Siemens Healthineers. Compared to the 1.5-tesla MRI, the 3-tesla scanner offers significantly higher image resolution and reduces examination time, which improves patient comfort, especially for those with mild claustrophobia.
In June 2024, our medical facility launched the advanced Siemens VIDA MRI scanner. The launch of the VIDA MRI is a result of our commitment to providing the highest quality medical care and delivering services at the highest level. We are proud to introduce this innovative technology, which provides faster and more accurate results for our patients.
The new VIDA MRI offers numerous benefits for both patients and clinicians. It enables faster and more effective diagnosis of medical conditions.
Moreover, the Siemens VIDA system opens up new research opportunities, allowing for more precise imaging of anatomical structures and organ functions, which is crucial in the context of medical science development. With advanced image processing algorithms and artificial intelligence technology, the device allows for data analysis with unprecedented accuracy. This tool supports not only clinical diagnostics but also research into the pathomechanisms of various diseases, contributing to a better understanding of disease processes.
Computed Tomography (CT): Precise Cross-Sectional Images
Computed Tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that allows for the acquisition of precise cross-sectional images of the patient’s body. By utilizing X-ray technology and computer-based image analysis, CT provides information about the structure of organs and tissues. Our CT facility ensures precise diagnostics for patients in a short amount of time.
Clinical Studies and Research Projects Conducted at the Molecular Imaging and Technology Development Laboratory
The year 2024 is a time of intensive work on the development of new research and scientific projects aimed not only at improving the quality of diagnostics but also at advancing medicine, particularly in the field of modern molecular imaging technologies. Our research activities are closely linked to clinical practice, which allows patients access to the most advanced tests that are not covered by public health insurance.
PET/MR with 68Ga-PSMA in Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
One of the key projects being carried out at the Molecular Imaging and Technology Development Laboratory is the study of the use of PET/MR with 68Ga-PSMA in prostate cancer diagnosis. The aim of the project is to assess the effectiveness of this modern technology in detecting cancerous changes and evaluating the stage of the disease. The combination of positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in prostate cancer diagnostics provides exceptionally precise images that integrate information about both the anatomical structure and tissue function, which can be crucial for the effectiveness of treatment. This project represents an important step toward improving diagnostic methods in the field of urology, with hopes for the future widespread implementation of this technology, thus enhancing patient prognosis and quality of life.
Comparison of Clinical Value of WBMR and PET/MR with PET/CT and Standard Diagnostics in Preoperative Staging of Breast Cancer
Another significant project is the comparative study of the clinical value of WBMR (Whole-Body MRI) and PET/MR with PET/CT, as well as traditional diagnostics, in the preoperative staging of breast cancer. The aim of this project is to analyze the effectiveness and precision of different molecular imaging methods in determining the stage of the tumor and evaluating the spread of the disease. This project has gained significant importance as it allows for better tailoring of diagnostic methods to the individual needs of breast cancer patients, which can influence the selection of the best therapeutic strategy and improve treatment outcomes. The innovative approach in this project, combining various imaging technologies, may revolutionize the way this common cancer is diagnosed and treated.
The impact of projects on the development of medicine
Both ongoing projects have tremendous potential in advancing modern medicine, both in terms of diagnostics and patient treatment. Conducting such research not only expands our knowledge about the effectiveness of new technologies in detecting cancers but also influences the future development of diagnostic methods. Thanks to these initiatives, the laboratory not only contributes to improving the quality of diagnostics but also impacts the education of future generations of doctors and scientists, which, in the long term, leads to the advancement of medicine and the improvement of public health.
The launch of these devices has not only contributed to improving the quality of medical services but also increased access for researchers and students of the Medical University of Białystok to state-of-the-art research equipment. Thanks to modern technologies, our specialists have access to the most advanced diagnostic methods, and students can benefit from opportunities for education at the highest level. Moreover, the development of our facility has been linked to the creation of new job opportunities for qualified specialists such as radiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, radiology technologists, and nurses, which enhances the overall competence of the team and the quality of the diagnostics provided.
We would like to thank our specialists, particularly the physicians, including specialists in nuclear medicine, radiology, and imaging diagnostics, radiopharmacists, radiology technologists, nurses, physicists, and staff from the administration and registration departments, for their professionalism, contributions, and provision of high-quality care to patients. We would also like to emphasize the role of our trusted partners for their collaboration, development, and contributions.
Thanks to this dynamic expansion, our Molecular Imaging and Technology Development Laboratory remains a leader in the field of modern diagnostics, ensuring that patients receive the highest level of medical care.
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