Modern cancer diagnostics require not only the expertise of physicians but also the most advanced imaging technologies. At the BioSkaner laboratory in the Białystok Science and Technology Park, we perform PET/MR examinations using the Siemens Biograph mMR system. It is one of the most advanced diagnostic devices, combining positron emission tomography (PET) with 3‑Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MR).
This combination makes it possible to assess both the structure of organs and the metabolic activity of cells at the same time, significantly increasing the accuracy of detecting and evaluating cancerous lesions. As a result, the physician gains a more comprehensive picture of the disease, and the patient receives a greater chance of appropriately tailored treatment.
What does a PET/MR examination involve?
PET/MR is a modern imaging method that combines two diagnostic technologies in a single examination:
- PET shows the metabolic activity of tissues, making it possible to detect cancer cells at a very early stage.
- MR (magnetic resonance imaging) provides an exceptionally detailed view of the anatomical structures of organs and tissues.
Unlike traditional examinations performed separately, in the PET/MR system both images are acquired simultaneously, allowing for perfect alignment and even more precise interpretation of the results.
Why does a 3‑Tesla MRI matter?
A system operating with a 3T magnetic field offers significantly greater diagnostic accuracy than standard devices.
Key benefits
- Very high image resolution
It enables detailed assessment of structures such as the brain, pelvic organs, liver and pancreas.
- Simultaneous PET and MR imaging
Metabolic and anatomical data are collected at the same time, eliminating errors caused by patient movement.
- Lower radiation dose
Using magnetic resonance imaging instead of computed tomography makes it possible to reduce radiation exposure by as much as 60–70%, which is particularly important for patients who require frequent follow‑up examinations.
How PET/MR supports doctors in cancer treatment?
A PET/MR examination provides doctors with highly precise information that supports therapeutic decision‑making.
Thanks to this technology, it is possible to:
- precisely determining the stage of the disease (staging)
- detecting micrometastases, especially in lymph nodes
- distinguishing tumour recurrence from postoperative or scar‑related changes
- monitoring the effectiveness of treatment, e.g. chemotherapy or targeted therapy
- assessing the tumour’s response to treatment even before its size changes
This enables the doctor to assess the effectiveness of the therapy more quickly and adjust it if necessary.
Safety and diagnostic quality at BioSkaner
At BioSkaner, every examination result undergoes double analysis by experienced specialists in nuclear medicine and radiology. We use individually selected radiopharmaceuticals and carefully refined patient‑preparation protocols to ensure the highest possible diagnostic quality.
The patient receives the examination result within up to 10 working days.
