Angiogenesis Imaging
Faster imaging opens doors to new applications like perfusion imaging and also supports clinical trials. In one example, the effect of anti-angiogenesis agents on tumour can be observed through dynamic contrast-enhanced CT studies.

Breast biopsy in cancer
Needle biopsies have become an increasingly important tool in the management of breast cancers. A preoperative diagnosis of malignancy allows the surgeon to offer the patient the appropriate surgical procedure and to aim for a single definitive surgery. [ more ]

Imaging modalities in Prostate Cancer
Various imaging modalities are useful in management of prostate cancer patients. While ultrasound may be very useful in diagnostic biopsy, imaging scans like CT and MRI are useful for staging and treatment planning respectively. In presence of bone metastases, bone scan serves a scan for disease monitoring. [ more ]

Imaging hepatoma
Six-monthly ultrasound and AFP levels remain the corner stone of screening hepatitis B carriers for hepatoma. Although there are no randomized controlled trials to validate the use of US, its use has been supported by consensus conferences. The annual HCC rates detected by US and AFP range from 2 to 10% depending on the length of follow up. [ more ]

CT colonography (Virtual colonoscopy)
Advances in technology has made it possible for us to do ‘virtual colonoscopy’ through reconstructed images obtained from a CT scan. ‘Virtual colonoscopy’ or CT colonography has recently been shown to be a credible alternative to optical colonoscopy for the detection of colonic polyps.


[ Click here to view colonoscopy video ]

Low-dose CT screening for lung cancer
Low Dose Computed Tomography (LDCT) has emerged as a promising technology for the screening of lung carcinoma in smokers. LDCT allows high-resolution imaging without contrast injection for the cost of relatively little radiation, with the scanning time as short as 20 seconds. [ more ]

2nd opinion read for cancer imaging

In cancer imaging, one has to be familiar with the expected biological behaviour of the different cancers and the expected imaging appearance after any particular treatment. Our consultant radiologists are involved regularly in multidisciplinary tumour board discussions and they are well equipped to handle the complexities of cancer imaging.

Rationale for service

The key to good management of cancer lies in accurate diagnosis, staging and follow-up so that treatment is tailored according to the patient’s need. Imaging complements clinical evaluation in the diagnosis, staging and follow-up of cancer.

Rapid evolution in medical imaging and the large number of different imaging modalities makes it difficult for any radiologist to keep abreast of all the new developments. In cancer imaging, subspecialty knowledge and experience in a particular body region necessary. Our consultant radiologists have had subspecialty training in their own areas of interest. As a group, we are equipped to handle imaging of the whole body.

In cancer imaging, one has to be familiar with the expected biological behaviour of the different cancers and the expected imaging appearance after any particular treatment. Our consultant radiologists are involved regularly in multidisciplinary tumour board discussions and they are well equipped to handle the complexities of cancer imaging.

When a second opinion read is useful
1. When you want a subspecialty radiological opinion.
2. When the case is complex
3. When the report does not address the clinical question
4. When there are discrepancies between the imaging report and your clinical impression.

Accessing Service
CLINIC REFERRAL PROCEDURE
· Bill the patient for our second opinion read.
· Fax request form for 2nd read (Appendix 1) to NCCS Oncologic Imaging Department
Fax no: 6225 6316
· Arrange for 2 way courier for films on CD rom

Prices - 2nd Read Requests (For doctors)

Contact Info
Oncology Imaging Administration Manager
Telephone Number: 81232689
Email: DOI-ENQUIRY@nccs.com.sg

The Department of Oncologic Imaging collaborated with local universities in various fields.

Automated tumour volume measurements:
software was developed with unique image processing algorithms to provide objective and reproducible measurements of tumour volume for the assessment of response to treatment.

Prostate spectroscopy:
NCCS is one of the few centres in Asia-Pacific (the others in Japan, China and Australia) that offers prostate spectroscopy to detect prostate cancer with higher precision.

Angiogenesis imaging:
Angiogenesis can be mathematically modelled by studying the kinetics of gadolinium as it passes through tumour. This form of imaging detects the start of cancer by detecting the formation of blood vessels of early tumours