In Atlanta, Georgia and around the nation, many physicians and radiologists rely upon lung scans to detect lung cancer in its early stages. This form of cancer is among the most deadly and is responsible for more deaths in the United States than any other type of cancer. When it is detected early before it has spread, the chances that treatment will be successful are often better than if detected in later stages. Conventional chest x-rays have a resolution much lower than CT scans, so many professionals turn to a lung CT scan to screen for lung cancer.
A CT scan can detect small masses in the lung. The scan provides an image of the entire chest as well as the middle part of the chest that contains important structures. The procedure is completely pain free and does not require any effort on the patient's part. The patient should not have breakfast on the day of the CT scan. The patient is often put into a gown and an intravenous (IV) is started. A dye is administered through the IV that helps to improve the image quality of the scan. The patient then lies down on a bed, which is then moved into the CT scan tunnel. Inside the tunnel, the patient lies still and images are taken of the patient's chest. The patient is asked to hold their breath during this part of the scan. Only a few seconds are required to perform the scan and the patient may change back into their clothes following the procedure.
Some individuals may have an allergy to the injected dye used in CT lung scans and would may a premedication to prevent any reaction. Patients with renal dysfunction are encouraged to discuss with their physician whether it is safe for them to receive the dye, as the dye may be harmful to the kidney. Some of these patients may be admitted to the hospital and be given intravenous fluids or medication before beginning the CT lung scan.
Those who are considered at risk of lung cancer are encouraged to speak with their doctor about a CT lung scan. Individuals considered at high risk include those who smoke cigarettes or pipes, are exposed to second hand smoke, have been exposed to asbestosis or radon, have a history of tuberculosis, have weight loss with coughing up blood, have a family history of lung cancer and who have prolonged coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.
Following the procedure, a trained radiologist will usually interpret the results of the scan. In many cases, the radiologist will discuss the results and a necessary follow-up may be required. For further information, patients are encouraged to speak with a radiologist at a scan center in the Atlanta area. Most lung scans cost around $500. In some cases, the lung scan may be covered by insurance, especially in cases where symptoms are present, the patient is referred by a physician or if there is a strong suspicion of a lesion in the chest. Patients are encouraged to consult the clinic and their insurance company to determine if the scan will be covered.
The radiation used with a CT scan is similar to that used with a mammogram and involves very little radiation. A chest CT scan may also involve a limited evaluation of the heart and abdomen. A lung scan may reveal other diseases in addition to lung cancer. These may include lung fibrosis, pleural effusion, scars, pneumonia, bronchiectasis or emphysema.
Learn more about lung scans in Atlanta, Georgia. .
