Chest CT
A chest CT uses x-rays to capture horizontal and vertical images of structures in the chest with emphasis on the lungs. These images are processed and combined by a computer to create detailed 3-D images that our radiologist can use to view organs of interest from different angles. The images taken with computed tomography are significantly more detailed than traditional X-rays and are particularly helpful for screening and diagnosing lung cancer at its earliest stage.
Reasons for a Chest CT scan
Your doctor may order a chest CT scan to examine your lungs or to investigate symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest pain. This exam can also help identify various lung diseases, such as:
- Pneumonia, including tuberculosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Bronchiectasis
- Benign or malignant tumors
- Reduced blood flow or blockage in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
Low-Dose Lung CT Scan
Insight Medical Imaging also provides a special type of chest CT scan for patients who have a history of smoking and are concerned about lung cancer. This scan is referred to as a low-dose lung CT scan and is a preventative screening exam that uses less radiation than a traditional chest CT.
You may be a candidate for lung cancer screening if you are between the ages of 50-74 and actively smoke or quit smoking but smoked for several years. When consulting with your healthcare provider, share details about your smoking history, including the number of cigarettes smoked daily, the duration of smoking, and your current age. Based on this information, you can collaboratively determine whether a low-dose CT scan is a suitable option for your lung health assessment.
Duration
A chest CT scan generally takes only a few seconds to perform. Your total exam visit may take up to 30 minutes
Exam Preparation
Being prepared for your CT exam helps us take the best possible images for diagnosis. Please visit our exam prep page for more instructions specific to chest CT scan preparation.
