Neck
Chest
Pelvis
Extremities
CT Cardiac Scoring Exam
CT Lung Screening Scan
Virtual Colonography
This study provides detailed images of the lungs using Computed Tomography (CT) imaging for lung cancer screening.
Common Uses for the Procedure
This examination is intended for patients at increased risk for lung cancer. This includes patients over 50 years of age that have smoked for more than ten years.
Preparation
No preparation is necessary.
CT Scanner
We use a state-of-the-art fast Toshiba Aquillion 64 multi-slice CT.
Procedure
You will lie on your back and hold your breath for about 20 seconds while the
CT scanner images your lungs. Breathing during the imaging will result
in blurry pictures and reduce the quality of the examination. We do not
use any needles or contrast agents. The entire examination takes 5 minutes—start
to finish.
Benefits
The detailed images of the lungs obtained with CT Lung Cancer Screening are far
superior to a standard chest x-ray. This technique can detect early lung cancers
that do not produce symptoms and may not be detected by a standard chest x-ray.
Risks and Limitations
Identification of a suspicious lung nodule or mass will lead to biopsy by either needle technique, bronchoscopy, or surgery. Some lung abnormalities that are most likely benign, rather than cancerous, will require repeated medical imaging follow-up to prove that they are stable over time. Not all lung nodules less than 5mm (.2 inches) will be detected by this technique.
There is exposure to medical x-ray radiation during this study. This exam should not be performed if you are pregnant. If you have any other questions about risk, please ask the radiologist.
Making an Appointment
Patients may call (970) 282-2912 and schedule their own CT Lung Cancer Screening
exam or may make arrangements for their physician's office to schedule the
exam.
Patients may also choose to schedule a combined CT Cardiac Calcium Scan and CT Lung Cancer Screening toghether for a combined reduced rate of $550.00.
The CT Lung Cancer Screening is typically not covered by Medicare or commercial insurance plans. The cost for this exam is $350.00 and is payable at teh time of service.