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Chest CT
Purpose
To obtain information about organs of the chest (i.e., lungs, pleural membrane, limitedly the heart, major veins and esophagus) regarding such diseases as inflammatory pulmonary disease, tumors, pulmonary embolia, fluid in the thoracic cavity and lymph nodes.
It is also useful in lung cancer screening in which case a lower dosage is used.
Are there any necessary preparations prior to the appointment?
No special preparation is required other than that you not ingest any food before your appointment. An empty stomach is required. Certain diabetic medications are not compatible with the contrast material and should not be taken. It is important, in this case, that you consult with your doctor beforehand. It is best to come prepared for a procedure using contrast material
How is the procedure performed?
A series of regular CT images and a series of CT images with the addition of a contrast material will be prepared. You will be asked to hold your breath while you move slowly through the tube of the machine.
Contraindications
The Patient's inability to hold his/her breath for 20-30-seconds which results in the formation of such pulmonary artefacts that make interpretation of the images impossible and allergy to the contrast material in those procedures (i.e., embolia) that require it.
