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CT Lung Screen - Low Dose CT Screening:
For five years, the National Cancer Institute's National Lung Screening Trial followed more than 53,000 current and former heavy smokers between the ages of 55 and 74 who smoked at least a pack a day for 30 years or more. They were given either a spiral CT or a chest X-ray once a year for three years starting in August 2002.
The NCI announced the preliminary results in November 2010: That spiral CT scans caught malignant tumors and nodules earlier, reducing the risk of dying from lung cancer by 20 percent in middle age and elderly smokers.
Low Dose CT Screening (Computed Tomography or CAT scan) for the Chest:
Low dose CT screening is a non-invasive safe test intended to replace or supplement routine chest x-rays performed in patients without symptoms or known lung disease. A recent clinical trial found that routine x-ray's where unable to detect lung cancer until they were at an advanced stage.
Low dose CT is designed to minimize the radiation exposure in asymptomatic patients while rapidly screening the lungs, allowing for the detection of pulmonary nodules. The detection of these pulmonary nodules found in the early stages could prove to be more curable
.
Uses:
Determine preliminary lung disease in people at risk of developing cancer who have smoked (1) pack of cigarettes per day for 10 years or (2) packs of cigarettes per day for 5 years.
Preparation:
A United Radiology technologist will review your chart and answer any questions.
Remove all jewelry and hairpins.
Wear comfortable clothing.
You will be asked to lie down on a table in a non-claustrophobic environment.
You will be asked to hold your breath while images are taken.
You can speak with the technologist at all times.
How Long is the Exam?:
Approximately 5-10 minutes
After the Exam:
You should experience no discomfort and return immediately to your daily activities.
Exam Results:
Results will be sent directly to your referring physician who will contact you.
Insurance Coverage:
Unfortunately, this screening is not currently covered by insurance. However, United Radiology provides the most affordable Low Dose CT screen in the area. Please contact customer service for more information at 301-441-9696. |
