St. Joseph Hospital is the first hospital in Southern California and the third hospital in
the United States to install the next generation PET-CT scanner.
The GE DiscoveryTM MI PET-CT System utilizes digital detection technology, which utilizes
a cutting-edge molecular imaging technology that enables clinicians to
detect cancerous lesions earlier, more precisely locate the source of
seizures within the brain, more accurately diagnose neurodegenerative
processes such as Alzheimer’s disease, and more confidently detect
the sites of active infection in the body. In the future, this technology
will be used to detect myocardial ischemia (shortage of blood supply or
oxygen to the heart).
Some of the benefits of the new scanner include:
- Improved spatial resolution (digital images)
- Improved scan speed
- Improved patient comfort. A scan takes 15 minutes or less, compared to
other diagnostic screenings that can last about 45 minutes.
- Reduced radiation exposure
Discovery MI was created to help clinicians achieve their primary goal
of diagnosing and treating diseases earlier and to better guide their
treatment strategies.
The PET-CT scanner was funded through philanthropy as a component of St.
Joseph Hospital's
Innovating for a Healthier Community comprehensive campaign.
To learn more about St. Joseph Hospital and the St. Joseph Hoag Health
network, call 949-381-4781 or email foremployers@stjoe.org.