News & Media

February, 2006

FATIMA HOSPITAL INTRODUCES POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY (PET)

State of the art cancer diagnosis tool now available locally

(North Providence, Rhode Island, February 6, 2006) - Our Lady of Fatima Hospital is pleased to announce the introduction of Positron Emission Tomography (PET), a powerful diagnostic tool in the fight against cancer. The hospital contracted with Rhode Island PET Services to make this technology available to local patients.

PET scanning is among the most advanced procedures for the detection of cancer available today. Through the delivery of safe levels of radioactivity, PET allows physicians to clearly assess a patient's biological functions, thereby identifying both normal and abnormal conditions. When a diagnosis such as cancer is made, PET provides physicians with valuable information to help manage and treat patients.

"We are truly excited about the diagnostic capabilities that the PET scanner provides us with," said Steven Weisblatt, MD, Chairman of Radiology at Our Lady of Fatima Hospital. "The new technology allows us to more accurately detect cancer in our patients and identify the extent of the disease."

In addition to its cancer detection benefits, PET is also an invaluable diagnostic tool for Alzheimer's Disease, dementia and seizures, as well as certain cardiac conditions.

"PET scanning is a 21st century tool that plays a vital role in medical care," said Dr. Weisblatt. "The addition of this state of the art technology is yet another example of Our Lady of Fatima Hospital's continuing commitment to providing world class medical treatment to our patients, in a community hospital setting."

Medicare and many private insurance plans now cover the cost of a PET scan. For more information, contact Denise Driscoll, director of radiology services, at 456-3265 or to schedule an exam, call 456-EXAM (3926).