Many people mistakenly think that a computed tomography scan (CTS) performed on the chest is painful, or at least uncomfortable. In fact, it is not. The process is completely noninvasive; it is non-surgical and does not require inserting anything into the body. Physicians use this method to generate an image of everything in your chest with far greater precision and detail than a conventional x-ray can offer. The computer can also create a 3D model by stacking multiple images.
By bathing the upper body area with harmless ionizing radiation, doctors can study any abnormalities or symptoms which may suggest heart disease. They can also study tumors, blood clots, or any other issues that may exist in or near the lungs. Below, we’ll explain what you can expect before, during, and after a computed tomography scan.
Before The Process
The machine used to bathe your chest in radiation is large. In its center, there is a tunnel through which your entire body is slowly moved as the computer takes x-rays. You’ll be asked to remove any foreign objects (i.e. dentures, piercings, jewelry, etc.) before you can be moved through the tunnel.
You should inform your doctor if you’re pregnant. You should also tell him or her if you suffer from any existing conditions, including allergies, diabetes, or heart disease. Because the tunnel through which you’re moved is relatively small, you should inform your doctor if you are claustrophobic.
During The Process
The CT scan only requires a few minutes. But the entire process, including preparation, takes approximately half an hour. Within the tunnel, there is a slender table on which you’ll be asked to lie. The table moves your body through the tunnel.
During the CT scan, while you’re lying on the table within the tunnel, you’ll hear clicking and whirring noises. You might think you’ve entered some sort of weird, parallel universe, but those noises are generated as the scanner within the machine takes pictures of your hollow chest. There is also a technician who will communicate with you (through a speaker system) during the CTS. He or she may ask you to hold your breath or remain motionless to ensure the machine’s scanner takes clear pictures that are devoid of blurring.
After The Process
In most cases, you’ll be free to go home and resume your normal activities immediately following the CT scan. If you had received any medication to calm your nerves, you’ll likely need a friend or family member to drive you home. Occasionally, doctors will inject a contrast dye into your veins in order to highlight the chest area and produce images that are clearer. If they did so, you may have a small bruise at the point of injection.
The entire CT scan is largely unremarkable. However, it is a powerful tool that doctors rely upon to identify, or further study, potential problems with your heart and lungs.
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