The founder of PET/CT at Las Colinas discusses the benefits of scans before surgery.

Irving, TX – For thousands of head and neck cancer patients each year, treatment often involves a rigorous process of chemotherapy and/or radiation followed by potentially risky surgery. New research is shedding light on a way to help some avoid the surgery all together without hampering chances for a positive outcome. PET/CT scans can offer the insights doctors need without necessarily requiring invasive surgery, a new study has found.

“Surgery in head and neck cancers is generally performed after other interventions,” explains Dr. Gregory Echt, founder of PET/CT of Las Colinas. “The procedure is meant to provide a definitive check that radiation or chemotherapy have successfully addressed the tumor. If not, surgeons will remove any remaining cancer witnessed during the procedure. The concern, however, is that not all patients actually end up needing the additional intervention.”

To find out if PET/CT scans could perform in place of surgery, in some cases, researchers recently looked at cases involving 500 patients. The study ultimately found that the imaging technique was highly successful in determining which patients required surgery and which did not. About 20 percent of the patients in the group did require surgery. The overall survival rate for those who underwent surgery and those whose PET/CT scans helped them avoid the step was approximately the same.

“The findings are tremendously encouraging,” says Dr. Echt. “By having the ability to double-check progress without necessarily needing to perform surgery, PET/CT scans may deliver a way for doctors to help patients avoid this extra step in the treatment process.”

People who are diagnosed with heck and neck cancers should consult with their healthcare providers about all treatment options. Surgery to ensure cancer’s removal is sometimes unavoidable and can prove life-saving in many cases.

About PET/CT of Las Colinas
PET/CT of Las Colinas is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of our patients. We understand that the foundation of a successful treatment plan – or a clean bill of health – begins with sophisticated, accurate imagery. We look forward to providing you with the highest level of care.Our imaging center is located conveniently across the highway from the Las Colinas Medical Center within the Las Colinas Cancer Center on Highway 161 in Irving, TX. and – once here – we offer hassle-free curbside parking.