CT Lung Screening
Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. At New York Medical Imaging Associates, we provide a quick test that has the potential to detect lung cancer at an early, treatable stage. An article in The Lancet (1999, 356:99-105) published results of a research study that concluded low-dose CT can greatly improve the likelihood of detection of early lung cancers.
Our practice has a state-of-the-art CT scanner available to screen at-risk patients for lung cancer. Helical CT screening has been shown to be more sensitive than conventional chest x-rays at detecting early lesions. The multidetector CT scanner takes an image in just 20 seconds by scanning continuously, rather than taking a series of pictures every 5-10 seconds like the traditional CT scan.
The examination requires no intravenous contrast injection and the actual scan is approximately 20 seconds. This is a low dose scan with no more radiation than a conventional chest x-ray. A CT lung screening is most valuable for anyone experiencing one or more of these risk factors:
- History of smoking
- History of exposure to radon gas
- Family history of lung cancer
- Previous lung disease
- Exposure to certain industrial and organic substances (asbestos, diesel fuel, and uranium)
Reimbursement for this examination is varies so patients should check with their insurance carrier prior to scheduling an examination so they understand their financial obligation at the time of service.
