Cost of Chest CT Scan in India
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What is a CT Scan Chest?
A CT scan is an imaging procedure. It creates detailed images of the organs and structures inside your chest using special X-ray equipment and computer technology. Compared to regular X-rays, these images are more detailed. They can provide more information about injuries to the chest organs or diseases that affect them.
An X-ray beam moves in a circle around your body during a CT scan. It takes many images of the lungs and the inside of the chest, known as slices. These images are processed by a computer and displayed on a monitor.
Why is a CT Scan Chest done?
CT scans of the chest are done by doctors to:
- Examine any abnormalities discovered on X-rays of the chest.
- Assist in determining the cause of chest diseases.
- Detect and assess the extent of tumors in the chest as well as tumors that have spread there from other parts of the body.
- Check to see if the tumors are responding to treatments.
- Assist in the planning of radiation therapy.
- Examine injuries to the heart, blood vessels, lungs, ribs, and so on.
Who should get the CT Scan Chest done?
A CT scan of the chest and its organs may be used to check for:
- Blockages
- Injuries
- Bleeding inside the lungs
- Infections
- Other medical issues
- Tumors and other abnormalities
- Chest pain that won’t go away
When other tests, such as an X-ray or a physical exam, are inconclusive, a CT scan may be used.
This test can also be used to help guide needles during thoracic organ or tumor biopsies. A biopsy is a procedure in which a small piece of tissue is removed and examined in the lab. CT scans can also be used to assist in the removal of a fluid sample from the chest. They’re useful for monitoring tumors and other chest conditions before and after treatment.
Disclaimer: It is advised to always consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
What precautions should I take?
- Please follow the instructions suggested by your doctor
- Inform the doctor if one is on any medications or if any treatment is going on.
- Show your old reports, if any.
- Inform the doctor if one is pregnant/breast-feeding/menstruating.
What does the CT Scan Chest measure?
This test helps provide images of lung tissue, vessels, bronchi and bronchioles, heart and its vessels.
What tests are included in the CT Scan Chest?
For this particular test, your radiologist will only perform a CT Scan Chest using a CT Scan machine. No other pre or post-tests are required, unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
CT Scan Chest preparation
- It is important to inform the doctor if you are pregnant/breastfeeding or have claustrophobia before undergoing the test.
- You must inform the doctor and staff at the center about your implants, pacemaker device, vascular stents, etc.
- You are not allowed to take any metal objects or electronic devices in the test area.
- You must remove all the jewelry before undergoing the test.
- You will be asked to wear a hospital gown before undergoing the test.
- In this type of test, a contrast dye will be given intravenously.
- It is important to inform the doctor if you have had any allergic reactions to contrast dye in the past or if you are suffering from any kidney disease.
- You must inform staff about all the medicines that you may be taking before undergoing the test.
CT Scan Chest procedure
The licensed lab technician at the center or hospital will guide you through the test process.
Before your scan, the technicians may place an IV catheter in your arm or leg and ask if you have removed any metal devices or medication patches.
They may also go over the reason for the scan, any allergies you may have, and any other special instructions you need to follow.
When the scan is ready, you’ll be seated on a long, narrow table with velcro straps or other safety devices to keep you in place. According to which parts of your body need to be visualized, the table will slide in and out of the circular scanner.
Before operating the scanner, the technicians will leave the room and may communicate with you via intercom.
What to expect after the CT Scan Chest is done
A Chest CT Scan will, in most cases, have no immediate or long-term consequences. The images from the CT scan are sent to a radiologist to be examined. A radiologist is a doctor who specializes in using imaging techniques such as CT scans and X-rays to diagnose and treat conditions.
Your doctor will contact you to discuss the results.
When will I get the CT Scan Chest report?
You will receive your CT Scan Chest about a week after your test is done. However, the time may vary based on your condition and the availability of the radiologist.
How will I get the CT Scan Chest report?
To receive your report, you will have to visit the radiology clinic or the lab where the test was done. Once there, your radiologist or lab technician will provide you with the CT Scan Chest report with all the accompanying images and may explain the results to you. You will also be able to access your report on the MFine portal.
How to interpret the CT Scan Chest report
A radiologist will interpret your CT Scan with contrast scans, putting the results in context with previous scans and your medical history. Within a few days, they’ll send you a radiology report, which you’ll go over with your healthcare provider.
A typical radiology report includes a copy of each individual scan as well as notes on any abnormalities that were discovered.
If any atypical features are discovered during the CT scan, you may need additional tests or treatments, depending on the type of atypicality discovered.
The impressions section of the report will contain specific details that your healthcare provider can explain to you.
The radiologist may offer a specific diagnosis or a list of possible causes in a differential diagnosis based on the scans and a review of your medical history.
Is there any risk involved?
A CT scan is associated with very few risks. These are some of them:
- Multiple scans can increase the risk of cancer and there can be allergic reactions to contrast dyes.
- If you are allergic to contrast dye, your doctor may opt for a non-contrast scan. If you absolutely must use contrast, your doctor may prescribe steroids or other medications to help you avoid an allergic reaction.
- The contrast dye you were given will be naturally eliminated from your body through your urine and stool after the scan. Because contrast dye can put a strain on the kidneys, you may be advised to drink plenty of water after your procedure.
- If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, tell your doctor right away. Radiation can cause birth defects, if received during pregnancy.
Other problems may exist, depending on your medical condition. Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss any concerns you may have.
What equipment or instruments are used for the CT Scan Chest?
A Chest CT Scan can be performed using a CT Scan machine and a small amount of ionizing radiation to get clear images of the abdominal section. The size of the machine will be determined by the scan’s purpose and the patient’s history.
At the start of the procedure, the patient will be asked to lie on his/her back on a CT Scan table. After that, the CT Scan machine will be placed over the patient’s chest. The patient will be asked to lie perfectly still for a few seconds while holding breath. The CT images will be taken while you are in this position.
How long does the CT Scan Chest take?
A CT Scan usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Your radiologist will immediately be able to view the images and interpret the results. When you arrive, the staff will let you know how long the exam should take.
How do I book the CT Scan Chest through MFine?
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Frequently asked questions on CT Scan of Chest
What are the various organs present in the thoracic cavity?
The thoracic cavity consists of respiratory organs such as the lungs, trachea, bronchi as well as non-respiratory parts like the heart, the thymus gland, the esophagus and the diaphragm.
What other procedures may be prescribed along with CT Scan Chest?
X-ray of the chest, chest ultrasound, kidney scan, pulmonary angiogram, lung biopsy, and magnetic resonance imaging are some of the other procedures that may be used to diagnose problems with the organs in the thoracic cavity.
Can a Chest CT Scan detect cancer or tumor growth?
ome cancers can be found and pinpointed using a chest CT scan. A CT Scan Chest is the most effective way to detect tumors in the thoracic section, specifically in the lungs. Doctors can sometimes tell if a tumor is cancerous or not using a CT scan.
Are CT Scan results available immediately?
It’s unlikely that you’ll get your scan results right away. The lab technician will send a report to the doctor who has scheduled the scan and who will talk to you about the results. The results of an CT scan usually take a week or two to arrive, unless they’re needed right away.
What are the common conditions that may require a CT Scan Chest?
The common types of conditions that may require a chest CT scan are:
- Tumors in the chest
- Unexplained bleeding in the chest
- Blockages in the lungs
- Infections
- Covid-19
- Prolonged cough or breathlessness
Is there any need to alter my diet before a CT Scan Chest?
You will be asked to eat or drink nothing for a few hours before your appointment. Please notify your referring physician if you have previously experienced nausea or vomiting as a result of a CT scan. Unless otherwise directed, take your medications as prescribed.
Who needs to avoid a CT Scan Chest?
Certain people should avoid CT scans. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the CT scan may be postponed, if possible.
What are the side effects of a CT Scan Chest?
CT scan reactions are usually immediate, resulting in mild symptoms like hives, vomiting, dizziness, itching and nausea or severe symptoms like increased heart rate, usually due to allergic reaction to the dye. However, many people will not have any reaction after a CT scan is done.
For how long does the contrast dye stay in your body after a CT Scan Chest?
With normal kidney function, the majority of the gadolinium is excreted in the urine within 24 hours. If you have acute renal failure or severe chronic kidney disease and are given a gadolinium-based contrast agent, it may remain in your system for a few days until your kidneys process and remove it.
Do I get to go home immediately after a Chest CT Scan?
- Yes, once your scan is done, you will be immediately allowed to go home. However, if you feel dizziness, nausea or any other side effects or if you suffer from any chronic condition, your doctor may ask you to stay back for a while to ensure that there is no complication.
Can children undergo CT Scan Chest?
Yes, CT Scan Chest is a safe procedure and can be done on children and infants.
How can tumors or infections be prevented in the chest?
There is no sure shot way to prevent tumors or infections in the chest. However, you can take certain steps to reduce the risk of developing it. They are:
- Pesticides and insecticides should be avoided.
- Avoid contact with carcinogenic chemicals.
- Smoking should be avoided.
- Avoid exposing yourself to excess radiation.
What are the symptoms associated with pneumonia?
Some of the symptoms associated with pneumonia are:
- Severe pain in the chest
- Shortness of breath
- Coughing and wheezing
- Fatigue and nausea
- Difficulty in breathing
- Fever and chills
Is the contrast used in CT scans dangerous?
The contrast used in CT scans is considered safe for most people despite the low risk of side effects and allergic reactions. However, it could be dangerous for pregnant women or breastfeeding women.
What is the difference between a CT Scan and CT Scan Chest?
Both are scans that use electromagnetic waves to take pictures inside your body. A CT scan can be done to find abnormalities in any organ of the body. However, a CT scan chest is used specifically to detect abnormal growths, blockages or illnesses related to the lungs or inside the thoracic cavity.
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.