Central Missouri News

Lake Regional Health System has installed a new PET/CT scanner at its Imaging Center in Osage Beach, replacing a mobile unit with a permanent system. The fixed scanner, located at 1075 Nichols Road, is intended to improve patient comfort and provide easier access to imaging services.

“Upgrading from mobile technology to a fixed unit has made a remarkable difference for our patients,” said Michael Vierra, M.D., a radiologist at Lake Regional Imaging Center. “The new PET scanner offers greater comfort in a calming atmosphere, something our patients truly appreciate.”

The newly installed Biograph Trinion from Siemens Healthineers is the only fixed PET/CT unit available between Columbia and Springfield. This allows local patients to schedule weekday appointments without traveling long distances.

PET/CT scans are used for detecting cancers and certain neurological disorders. The new equipment provides clearer images and quicker results, which can help doctors make accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans. The system also includes features designed to reduce stress for patients during procedures.

"With the addition of this advanced PET/CT scanner, Lake Regional continues its commitment to providing leading-edge, patient-centered care for the lake area and surrounding communities,” said Dr. Vierra.

Information about additional imaging services such as MRI, CT, breast imaging, ultrasound, and lung cancer screening is available on the health system’s website at https://www.lakeregional.com/imaging/. All diagnostic imaging requires an order from a physician.