A low-dose CT screening is an important tool for detecting lung cancer early. If you’ve smoked cigarettes, or if your family has a history of lung cancer, your provider may suggest that you get a lung cancer screening. This scan provides a clear view of lung tissue with significantly reduced radiation exposure compared to a standard CT scan.
Below, we cover what to expect before, during, and after your low-dose CT scan, including how it works, why it’s necessary, and how to prepare.
Does a low-dose CT scan detect lung cancer?
This safe and low-dose radiation CT scan is designed for early detection of lung cancer. Early diagnosis significantly increases treatment options and success rates. If your healthcare provider has recommended this scan, it likely means you have risk factors like a smoking history, exposure to environmental toxins, or a family history of lung cancer.
Why You Need a Low-Dose CT Scan
Lung cancer often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, so a screening scan can help catch it before it has a chance to grow or spread. Low-dose CT scans are recommended for individuals with higher lung cancer risk, as they can identify cancer at an earlier, more treatable stage.
How does a low-dose CT scan create images of the lungs?
A low-dose CT scan uses advanced imaging technology to take detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your lungs. The machine takes multiple images, capturing different angles of your lungs. These images are then processed by a computer to create a clear, layered view of your lung tissue.
This scan uses significantly less radiation than a standard CT scan, while still providing high-quality images.
What does a lung CT scan show my provider about lung cancer?
This screening technology helps detect small nodules or masses in your lungs that could be early signs of lung cancer. Not all nodules are cancerous, but the scan allows your provider to track any changes over time.
If a nodule looks concerning, your provider may recommend further tests or follow-up scans to monitor your condition.
What else does a lung CT scan show my provider?
A low-dose CT scan can also reveal other lung conditions, such as scarring from past infections or chronic diseases like emphysema, which can help assess your overall lung health.
Preparing for your low-dose lung CT scan
Preparing for your low-dose lung CT scan is simple. Your provider will give you specific instructions based on your health history, but generally, you won’t need to fast or stop any medications unless otherwise directed.
What to Wear
Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal parts like buttons or zippers, as metal can interfere with imaging. You may be asked to change into a gown.
How Long Will the Appointment Take?
On the day of your scan, aim to arrive a little early so you have time to check in and get settled. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to bring them up when our scheduling center reaches out to help schedule your appointment time and location.
Expect to be at the imaging center for about 30 minutes. The scan itself is quick, typically lasting less than a minute, but the extra time accounts for check-in, preparation, positioning, and any final recommendations from your CT technologist before you leave.
During a low-dose CT scan
For your low-dose CT scan for lung cancer, you’ll lie on a cushioned table that will move slowly through the scanner, which is shaped like a donut. The technologist will guide you into position, usually lying on your back with your arms above your head to keep your chest clear for imaging.
What Do I Have To Do During My Lung CT Scan?
You’ll be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time to get the clearest images of your lungs. The entire process is typically very quick.
Ensuring Your Comfort
Your CT technologist will explain each step and assist you throughout the scan. If you have concerns about lying flat or holding your breath, let them know—small adjustments can be made to help you feel more comfortable.
Can I Talk To The Technologist During My CT Scan?
Although the technologist will step into an adjacent room to operate the scanner, they will be able to see and hear you the entire time. If you need assistance, or if you have any issues during the scan, they can pause the process if necessary. Their goal is to make sure your experience is smooth, quick, and stress-free.
After the Low-Dose CT Scan
After the scan, you can resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions, unless your provider advises otherwise.
Interpreting Your Results
A sub-specialized radiologist will review the images to identify any abnormalities such as small lung nodules, areas of scarring, or other signs that might need further evaluation.
Lung nodules can be common and may not always be cancerous. Your doctor will receive a detailed report from a sub-specialized radiologist. Your healthcare provider will then share the results and discuss the next steps with you.
How Long Until You Get Results?
You should expect to receive results within a week. If you don’t hear back within the expected time frame, you should feel free to follow up with your provider’s office, and ask when your results will be available.
In the case that anything unusual is found from your low-dose lung CT, your provider will guide you through any necessary follow-up steps. If your results are normal, your provider may simply recommend regular screenings in the future to monitor your lung health.
How to schedule your CT appointment with us
Touchstone Medical Imaging offers low-dose CT scans in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Colorado, and Oklahoma.
Reach out to us at Touchstone, and we’ll help you schedule an appointment at an imaging center near you, today.
We’re here to help you get the answers you need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: It helps detect lung cancer early in high-risk individuals, significantly improving treatment outcomes.
A: The scanner uses X-rays and computer technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the lungs.
A: It can show lung nodules or other abnormalities that may indicate early-stage lung cancer.
A: You typically don’t need special preparation, but your provider may ask you to avoid eating before the scan.
A: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, and avoid metal objects like jewelry or underwire bras.
A: You’ll lie on a table that moves through the CT scanner while you hold your breath for a few seconds.
A: Yes, you can return to your routine immediately after the scan.
A: Your provider will typically review your results within a week, and discuss them with you.