Techniques, benefits, and challenges of PET-MR.

Positron emission tomography (PET) scans can now be acquired in unison with magnetic resonance (MR) scans as a single resource. This hybrid PET-MR solution combines the anatomic detail and functional data of MR scans with the biologic or physiological information offered by PET scans. This article describes aspects of implementing a PET-MR imaging program, including various technical and operational challenges, scheduling and workflow solutions, room construction and equipment, and finally clinical applications of this novel modality. The Directed Reading also discusses the possible future role of PET-MR in the clinical setting.