Meet Dr. Samuel Unzek
Cardiologist and Advanced Cardiac Imaging Specialist
Samuel Unzek Freiman, MD, FACC, FASE, FASNC
Dr. Samuel Unzek is a cardiologist and Advanced Cardiac Imaging Specialist with more than 20 years of medical experience. He is board-certified in Cardiology, Internal Medicine and Nuclear Cardiology.
He completed his Internal Medicine residency at Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, followed by fellowships in Cardiovascular Disease and Advanced Cardiac Imaging at Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Dr. Unzek combines clinical cardiology with advanced diagnostic imaging to help patients better understand their heart health and the next steps in their care.
Advanced PET Imaging for Heart, Brain and Prostate Health
Cardiac PET, Alzheimer’s PET and Prostate Cancer PET provide detailed insights that help physicians make more informed decisions about your care
- Phoenix & Tempe, AZ
Our PET Imaging Services
Cardiac PET
Cardiac PET evaluates blood flow to the heart muscle.
The results can help physicians identify areas with reduced blood flow and determine whether further cardiovascular interventions may be needed.
- May help investigate chest discomfort or shortness of breath that may be signs suggestive of a coronary blockage
- Higher sensitivity to detect significant coronary blockages when compared to conventional nuclear stress testing
- Less radiation exposure
- Fast and efficient patient experience
Alzheimer’s PET
Alzheimer’s PET evaluates the brain for beta-amyloid plaques, a biological feature commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
The PET scan is considered alongside medical history, cognitive testing and neurological evaluation to provide a more definitive cause of dementia.
- Evaluates amyloid plaque buildup in the brain
- Supports the investigation of cognitive decline
- May help in candidacy and assessment of newer Alzheimer therapies
Prostate Cancer PET
Prostate Cancer PET uses a PSMA-targeted tracer, a protein that is overexpressed in most prostate cancer cells, to help locate prostate cancer activity throughout the body.
The examination may support staging, treatment planning or the evaluation of possible recurrence after previous treatment.
- Helps identify PSMA-positive prostate cancer activity
- Very high sensitivity to detect prostate cancer even at low PSA levels in the blood.
- Supports staging and recurrence evaluation
Meet Dr. Samuel Unzek
Cardiologist and Advanced Cardiac Imaging Specialist
Dr. Samuel Unzek is a cardiologist and Advanced Cardiac Imaging Specialist with more than 20 years of medical experience. He is board-certified in Cardiology, Internal Medicine, Echocardiography, and Nuclear Cardiology.
He completed his Internal Medicine residency at Case Western Reserve University and University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, followed by fellowships in Cardiovascular Disease and Advanced Cardiac Imaging at Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
At Astra Healthcare, Dr. Unzek focuses on cardiovascular care and the interpretation of cardiac imaging studies, helping patients better understand their heart health and the next steps in their care.
Specialized Expertise for Other PET Scans
Other than Cardiology services, Astra Healthcare offers PET imaging for conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and prostate cancer.
These examinations are interpreted by highly regarded radiologists with experience in the specific area being evaluated.
This ensures that each scan is reviewed by the appropriate specialist and that patients receive clear, clinically relevant information about their results.
What to Expect During Your PET Scan
Before your examination, the Astra Healthcare team will provide preparation instructions based on the specific PET scan ordered.
A small IV is used to administer a specialized tracer. After allowing time for the tracer to circulate, you will lie on the scanner table while detailed images are captured.
The scan itself is painless and remaining still is important. Appointment length varies according to the type of PET examination.
After the scan, the images are reviewed by a qualified board certified physician and a report is shared with the appropriate referring provider.
Schedule Your PET Imaging Consultation
Contact Astra Healthcare to learn more about Cardiac PET, Alzheimer’s PET and Prostate Cancer PET Imaging.
Our Locations
- Tempe Office
- 8655 S. Priest Drive - Tempe, AZ 85284
- Phone: (480) 462-2716
- Phoenix Office
- 7010 E. Chauncey Lane, Suite 120 - Phoenix, AZ 85054
- Phone: (480) 462-2716
Contact our team to confirm availability, referral requirements and preparation instructions for your exam.
Contact our team to confirm availability, referral requirements and preparation instructions for your exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
The appropriate exam depends on your medical needs. Cardiac PET evaluates blood flow to the heart, Alzheimer’s PET evaluates amyloid plaques in the brain and Prostate Cancer PET helps locate PSMA-positive cancer activity. Your physician will determine which exam is appropriate.
A physician’s order will be required depending on the exam and your insurance plan. Our team can review the requirements before scheduling your appointment.
The total appointment time varies according to the exam and the tracer uptake period. Most appointments are completed within 1-2 hours, and our team will provide specific instructions in advance.
The scan itself is painless. A small IV is used to administer the tracer, and you will need to remain still while the images are captured.
Astra Healthcare works with several major insurance providers. Coverage and prior authorization requirements vary by plan and exam, and our team can help verify your benefits.
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