Imaging is the eyes of modern oncology. At KD Cancer Centre, our radiology team does far more than take pictures; our specialist oncological radiologists interpret every scan in the context of your specific cancer, treatment stage, and clinical question. The right imaging at the right time, interpreted by the right specialist, makes all the difference.

Why oncology imaging is specialised

A CT scan or MRI at a general radiology centre and one at a dedicated cancer centre can produce very different clinical information, not because the machines are different, but because of how the scan is performed and reported.

Dedicated oncological imaging protocols with different CT and MRI sequences, contrast timings, and slice thicknesses are required for different cancers. A general CT 'abdomen' scan is not the same as a 'pancreatic protocol CT' or 'rectal MRI for CRM assessment'.

Specialist oncological radiologists, who know how to characterise a liver lesion as HCC vs cholangiocarcinoma vs metastasis; how to read a rectal MRI for surgical planning; how to assess treatment response on a post-chemotherapy PET-CT.

Integrated reporting, our radiologists attend MDT tumour board meetings and discuss findings with the treating oncology team, not just issue reports

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) in cancer care

MRI uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves, "NO RADIATION", to produce exquisitely detailed images of soft tissues.

What MRI tells us that CT cannot

• Brain and spinal cord tumours: MRI is the definitive imaging for all CNS tumours; it detects lesions invisible on CT.
• Rectal cancer staging: MRI is mandatory for rectal cancer; it measures the circumferential resection margin (CRM), which determines whether surgery alone is safe or neoadjuvant chemoradiation is needed.
• Liver lesion characterisation: Multi-phase liver MRI with diffusion-weighted imaging can characterise small lesions as HCC, haemangioma, or metastasis with high accuracy.
• Prostate cancer staging: Multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI) guides targeted biopsy; PI-RADS scoring for lesion risk.
• Gynaecological cancers: MRI pelvis is essential for uterine invasion depth in endometrial cancer, parametrial involvement in cervical cancer.
• Breast MRI: For the extent of disease, dense breasts, BRCA carriers, and implant integrity.
• Bone and soft tissue tumours: MRI defines tumour extent and relationship to neurovascular structures.
• Head and neck cancers: Perineural invasion, skull base involvement, carotid artery encasement.

CT Scan (Computed Tomography) in cancer care

CT uses X-ray technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the entire body quickly. It is the workhorse of oncological staging.

Dedicated Oncological CT Protocols at KD Cancer Centre

• Triple-phase liver CT: Separate arterial, portal venous, and delayed phase acquisitions for HCC characterisation and liver surgical planning.
• Pancreatic protocol CT: Thin-slice imaging with dual-phase contrast specifically timed to characterise pancreatic masses and assess vascular involvement.
• CT chest/abdomen/pelvis (staging CT): Whole-body staging for most solid tumours.
• High-resolution CT chest (HRCT): For lung cancer characterisation, interstitial lung disease, and pulmonary nodule follow-up.
• CT urography: For bladder and ureteric tumours.
• CT enterography: For small bowel tumours and Crohn's disease-related malignancy.
• CT-guided biopsy: Real-time CT guidance for deep-seated lesions in the lung, liver, pancreas, and retroperitoneum.
• CT for radiation therapy planning: Dedicated treatment planning CT with immobilisation devices and contrast.

Imaging and anxiety: Patient support

We understand that undergoing cancer imaging can be stressful. Many patients feel anxious inside an MRI scanner or worry about the results. At KD Cancer Centre

We provide a patient-friendly environment, clear communication during the MRI scan, and sedation if necessary. Please tell us if you feel anxious in enclosed spaces.

IV contrast allergy: If you have had a previous reaction to contrast dye, tell us before the scan. We have pre-medication protocols and use safer low-osmolar contrast agents.

Diabetic patients: Contrast studies and PET-CT require specific fasting and insulin adjustment protocols. Our team will provide clear guidance.

Pregnant or breastfeeding: Specific protocols and alternatives are available. Always inform us.

Waiting for results: Radiological reports are provided to your treating oncologist within 24–48 hours for routine studies, and same-day for urgent cases. Your oncologist will discuss results with you at your next appointment.