Lung imaging utilizes a CT or CAT Scan, which is a noninvasive, painless medical procedure that is used by your doctor to assist him or her in diagnosing and treating medical conditions of the lung. CT Imaging is a specialized x-ray apparatus that is capable of taking numerous image or pictures of your lungs and utilizes a computer to join them together in cross-sectional views of the targeted areas. The images can either be reviewed on the computer screen or printed to view a hard copy of the image.
Lung Imaging is performed to:• To detect a blood clot or a pulmonary embolism
• To evaluate the blood flow or air ventilation through the lungs
• To determine which parts of the lung contain damage
The ProcedureTwo types of lung imaging techniques are done at the same time, a ventilation scan and a perfusion scan. A ventilation scan shows the areas of the lungs that are not receiving enough air or may be getting too much air. A perfusion scan shows areas of the lungs that are not receiving normal blood flow.
If you lungs are working normally, then the blood flow on the perfusion scan and the air flow on the ventilation scan will match perfectly. If the blood flow and air flow are mismatched, this is indicative of a pulmonary embolism.
Ventilation and perfusion scans can be done individually or in conjunction with each other to assist your doctor in diagnosing certain lung diseases.
You will be positioned on the CT examination table, in most case scenarios, lying flat on your back, your side or on your stomach. If you have are experiencing a difficult time holding the correct position during the exam, straps and pillows may be needed to assist you.
The table will then move rapidly through the scanner to determine the correct starting position for the images. Next, the table will move slowly through the machine as the actual CT Imaging is completed. You will need to wait until the technologist determines that the images are of high enough quality for the radiologist to read. The procedure usually lasts between 15-45 minutes.
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