What is Lung Tomography? Why and How is It Performed?

What is Lung Tomography? Why and How is It Performed?

Lung CT Scan: What It Is, How It’s Performed, and When It’s Preferred

A lung CT scan is an advanced imaging method that allows for a detailed examination of the chest area. This technique plays an important role in diagnosing lung diseases and can be performed in different ways, either with low dose or contrast enhancement. In this article, we will thoroughly discuss what a lung CT scan is, how it is performed, and in which situations it is preferred.

What Is a Lung CT Scan?

A lung CT scan is a type of computed tomography (CT) that uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of the lungs. This method allows for a detailed examination of lung tissue and helps detect possible diseases. It provides much more detailed results compared to a standard chest X-ray.

Why Is a Lung CT Scan Performed?

A lung CT scan is an important imaging method used to diagnose various diseases. Doctors may request a lung CT scan in the following situations:

  1. Lung Cancer Screening: Since smokers have a higher risk of lung cancer, low-dose lung CT scans are recommended for individuals in certain age groups.
  2. Pneumonia and Infections: It is used to diagnose lung infections, pneumonia, and tuberculosis.
  3. Pulmonary Embolism (Blood Clots in Lung Vessels): For patients experiencing shortness of breath and chest pain, a CT scan may be performed to determine if there are clots in the lung vessels.
  4. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Emphysema: CT scans may be needed to assess diseases like COPD and emphysema.
  5. Lung Nodules: A CT scan can help determine whether suspicious nodules found in the lungs are benign or malignant.
  6. Trauma: A CT scan may be performed to assess whether the lungs are damaged following chest trauma.

How Is a Lung CT Scan Performed?

A lung CT scan is a painless procedure carried out in hospitals or imaging centers. The procedure generally follows these steps:

Preparation Process:

  • If a contrast-enhanced CT scan is planned, the patient is given a contrast agent intravenously. This agent is used to improve the visibility of blood vessels and certain tissues.
  • The patient must remove any metal objects from their body, such as jewelry, belts, and glasses.
  • If fasting is required, the doctor will inform the patient in advance.

Scanning Process:

  1. The patient lies on their back on the CT scan table.
  2. The circular part of the CT scanner rotates around the patient, capturing cross-sectional images of the lungs.
  3. The patient may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds to enhance image clarity.

Evaluation of Results:

  • The images are reviewed by a radiologist.
  • Results are typically interpreted by the doctor and communicated to the patient within a few hours or by the next day.

Is a Lung CT Scan Harmful?

Since a CT scan uses X-rays, it involves a certain amount of radiation. However, low-dose CT scans performed with modern equipment minimize radiation exposure. Low-dose CT is especially preferred in lung cancer screenings. Unnecessary CT scans should be avoided, and the procedure should only be performed based on your doctor’s recommendation.