How and what is computed tomography (CT) of the chest

Computed tomography – a highly reliable non-invasive method of diagnosis that is carried out using special apparatus (CT scanners), equipped with sensors of x-rays.

This method helps to diagnose the pathology of the chest at the early stages of their occurrence, which significantly increases the percentage of recovery. In practice, chest CT is indicated for primary diagnosis, as well as to Refine the diagnosis based on the results of clinical examination and ultrasound.

Methods of

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To date, to study the condition of the chest are two main methods – or multilayer spiral computed tomography.

The Essence of the method of spiral CT is: equipped with x-ray radiation detectors tube in a spiral CT scanner rotates around the chest of the patient. This selects the desired rotation speed – the higher it is, the more area scanning.

Computer tomography – is an advanced method spiral. X-ray sensors in this case are arranged in several rows. This allows you to scan up to 300 layers and see the processes that occur in a given second. Multislice CT is indispensable if you want to trace the reduction of the myocardium to identify the causes of heart rhythm disorders.

clinical research

This diagnostic procedure is given to study the condition of almost all organs located in the chest. The study helps to identify pathological conditions of the lungs and bronchi, trachea, esophagus, heart, blood vessels and lymph system of this area, and mammary glands. In addition, computed tomography of the chest to assess the condition of the sternum, ribs and shoulder blades.

Prescribed procedure if you suspect the following pathological conditions:

  • tuberculosis
  • pneumonia
  • tumors of various etiologies;
  • aneurysm
  • thromboembolism
  • violation of the functions of the pericardium;
  • esophageal stenosis
  • chest injuries
  • foreign objects in the respiratory tract.

Image obtained during CT scanning, high definition. Their resolving power exceeds the x-ray images almost 10 times. TOOOherefore, computed tomography of the thorax, being more informative procedure is applied to Refine the diagnosis made on the basis of data fluorography or x-ray.

In some cases, the procedure is contraindicated in

For research use x-ray radiation, so avoid negative effects on the fetus it can not be performed in pregnancy. To do CT with contrast is contraindicated in patients with Allergy to iodine-containing drugs. Also this study is not prescribed:

  • lactating women
  • young children
  • patients suffering from hyperkinesis (involuntary movements of various muscle groups) in the severe form;
  • when expressed pain syndrome;
  • patients whose condition is assessed as severe (coma, shock).

Proper preparation of the survey

If chest CT is performed without contrast, then a special preparation is not required. The procedure should come in light clothing, without restricting movement, you also need to remove all metal objects.

"if the appointment of CT scan with contrast 4 hours before the procedure, you must abstain from food."

How is CT

During the scan the patient lies on a couch that moves inside a large cylinder, equipped with sensors of x-rays. The scanner irradiates the desired area, takes readings and transmits them to the computer, where using a special program they are transformed into the image of the studied body, which can be printed or saved on digital media.

To obtain the clearest possible image during the CT scan of the chest should stay still. To do this, sometimes use a special fixture. The doctor may ask the patient to hold the breath for a few seconds.

When assigning a CT scan with contrast prior to scanning of intravenously injecting a special substance. The patient may experience nausea, hot flushes to the face, fever, metallic or salty taste in the mouth. You should know that such feelings are completely normal.

After conducting the study with contrast, you may experience itching, increased blood pressure, shortness of breath – these symptoms disappear within 24 to 48 hours after excretion of contrast from the body. It is excreted through the kidneys, so as to accelerate the process, it is recommended to drink plenty of liquids.

What you can see in the picture

during the chest CT scan it is possible to obtain cross-sectional images of all investigated structures and organs. Scanhelps to see the following pathological conditions:

  • inflammation of the chest;
  • diffuse lung disease;
  • pathology of development of mediastinum
  • the presence of tumors of different etiology, their localization and the degree of involvement of nearby organs;
  • bone injury.

The procedure helps doctors to differentiate the tumor, located near the aorta, aneurysm; to distinguish a bronchopleural fistula from emphysema or lung abscess.

Computed tomography is an indispensable method of detecting dangerous diseases in the early stages asymptomatic. The test helps to identify stagnant processes in the heart and the development of malignant lung tumors in the first stage. A CT scan is often administered for the correction of the therapy and planning surgery.