PET/CT scanners have an 85% or higher level of accuracy in identifying certain types of cancers. The latest generation of PET/CT machines and linear accelerators have many advantages for your oncology practice.
To get the best performance and longest life from your equipment, you need a service contract. Learn more about PET/CT and linear accelerator service contracts and how TTG Imaging Solutions can help.
Benefits of PET/CT and Linear Accelerators for Oncology Practices
Adding a PET/CT machine or linear accelerator enhances the offerings at your oncology practice. You can take a more comprehensive approach to patient navigation. You can conduct more studies, which leads to greater reimbursement.
PET/CT Scans
PET/CT combines features of PET and CT nuclear imaging technologies. A PET scan uses a radioactive sugar tracer to see how cells are functioning. Cancerous cells will absorb larger amounts of sugar than healthy cells.
A CT scan combines a series of X-ray images to create a 3D image of the area under examination. It shows you the structure of the bones, blood vessels, and soft tissue.
PET/CT provides information about the structure and function of cells and tissues.
Linear Accelerator
Linear accelerators can be used for cancer diagnosis and treatment. They accelerate X-rays or electrons and make the rays conform to the shape of the target tumor. The particles destroy cancer cells without harming healthy cells.
Different radioisotopes have different types of radiation, allowing you to optimize the treatment for each case.
A particle accelerator helps ensure the radiation treatment is as targeted as possible. You can reduce the risk of damaging normal cells with the cancerous ones.
Oncology Service Contracts Protect Your PET/CT and Linear Accelerators
A PET/CT machine or a linear accelerator is a significant investment. You want to get the best performance for as long as possible. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance helps ensure your equipment is working at its best.
You can simplify your maintenance schedule with a preventive maintenance contract. Preventive maintenance helps identify and address issues before they become serious problems.
Preventive Maintenance and Quality Control for PET/CT
The multimodal nature of PET/CT machines means they have more complex maintenance needs. Maintenance checks should go beyond the PET detector response. The inspection should include PET system calibration and aspects of the integrated CT component.
Quarterly checks are recommended to test the uniformity of PET data. CT attenuation and scatter correction should also be part of this test.
A yearly calibration and uniformity test that includes more variables is also recommended. A dedicated PET/CT alignment check should be performed at least once a year.
Preventive Maintenance and Quality Control for Linear Accelerators
Inspection of linear accelerators focuses on the highest-priority performance characteristics. Dysfunctions in these features are the most likely to trigger an interlock that shuts down the system. They include:
- Gantry Speed and Positional Accuracy
- Mlc Leaf Speed and Positional Accuracy
- Beam Uniformity or Steering
Inspections look at dosimetry, mechanical, optical, and safety aspects of the machine. Manufacturers usually recommend preventive maintenance three or four times a year. An annual inspection includes a larger selection of quarterly characteristics.
Time and Materials Contracts Provide Flexibility
If you only need support on an as-needed basis, you may want a time and materials contract. You call the service provider when you need an issue addressed. Time and materials contracts can cover a range of services, such as:
- Troubleshooting
- Repairs
- Equipment Removal
- Equipment Installation
- Inspection Reports
You pay an agreed-upon rate for the contractor’s hours plus the cost of any parts. A third-party firm is usually more cost-effective than OEM pricing. You can often get faster, more responsive service.
Full-Service Annual Contracts Offer Comprehensive Support
A full-service annual contract is an all-in-one solution. It gives you peace of mind for your PET/CT and linear accelerator. It typically covers:
- Service
- Parts
- Labor
- Applications Support
- Maintenance
- Repairs
A full-service contract includes planned preventive maintenance. It also covers unexpected problems.
You have access to the service provider’s parts inventory. Parts can usually be shipped overnight.
A service provider with nationwide coverage will have qualified engineers who can get to your location more quickly. Most full-service contracts include travel costs. However, less travel time means more uptime for your PET/CT or linear accelerator.
Choosing the Right Provider for Oncology Solutions
A service contract for your oncology systems is only as good as the people who perform the service. Look for a well-established company. Their personnel should have experience with the type of PET/CT and linear accelerator you use.
Ask if the company offers training assistance. In addition to being very useful, this is another sign that the personnel is experienced with the equipment.
Good customer service is essential. You want people who are responsive and helpful. Reviews and recommendations from colleagues are good ways to learn about a company’s reputation.
Look for a company with relevant certifications. For example, ISO 9001 is an internationally recognized standard for quality management. ISO 13485 is a quality standard for linear accelerators and imaging devices, including PET/CT machines.
Trust TTG Imaging Solutions for Your PET/CT and Linear Accelerators
TTG Imaging Solutions has the equipment and service you need. We offer new and refurbished machines to meet your imaging needs.
Our team thoroughly tests and upgrades all refurbished equipment to meet OEM standards. We warranty all refurbished products, so you have peace of mind.
TTG offers a range of service contract options for PET/CT and linear accelerators. You can find the plan that best meets the needs of your practice.
Contact TTG today to start planning your equipment and services solution.
