Chest / Thoracic Imaging (Low-Dose Lung CT)

Procedure Overview

Chest / Thoracic Imaging (Low-Dose Lung CT) at Gangnam Heartscan Healthcare Center uses a 128-channel Multi-Detector CT scanner to capture thin-slice, high-resolution cross-sectional images of the entire thorax during a single brief breath-hold. Unlike standard chest radiographs, low-dose lung CT detects millimeter-scale pulmonary nodules and subtle parenchymal abnormalities while evaluating the lungs, heart contour, esophagus, thoracic vessels, pleura, and chest wall.

Clinical Indications

• Early screening for lung cancer and solitary or multiple pulmonary nodules
• Detection and follow-up of emphysema, pulmonary tuberculosis, pneumonia, bronchitis, bronchiectasis, and pleurisy
• Preventive thoracic screening for current or former smokers and individuals exposed to environmental dust or air pollutants
• Structural evaluation of the mediastinum, thoracic aorta, esophagus, heart silhouette, and chest wall

How the Screening Works

1. Chest Positioning: The patient lies supine on the 128-channel MDCT table with arms raised comfortably above the head.
2. Single Breath-Hold Volumetric Scan: Following a brief voice prompt to inhale and hold breath for several seconds, the scanner acquires continuous thin-slice images of the chest.
3. Radiologist Pulmonary Review: A board-certified diagnostic radiologist examines lung parenchyma, airways, pleura, and mediastinal structures in detail.

Preparation & Precautions

• No fasting or contrast injection is required for a standard screening Low-Dose Lung CT.
• Wear clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or underwires around the chest area, or change into the provided screening gown.
• Inform the medical staff before the scan if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.