CT Chest Plain: Purpose, Procedure and Risks

Overview

CT Chest Plain is a simple and non-invasive scan that uses X-rays to create clear and detailed images of the chest. During the test, images are taken from different angles and combined by a computer to show the lungs and chest structures clearly. It gives more accurate results than a normal chest X-ray and helps doctors detect problems at an early stage. A CT chest plain is commonly used to find conditions such as lung infections, tumors, lung cancer, chest injuries, or blood clots in the lungs. In some cases, doctors may suggest a contrast CT or HRCT scan for more detailed evaluation.

What is Chest Plain CT?

Chest plain CT (Computed Tomography) is the non-invasive diagnostic technique which uses X-rays for the detection of abnormalities in the chest and associated tissues.CT chest plain can detect abnormalities of the organs located in chest cavity like lungs and heart. CT chest planes can detect abnormalities like lung cancer, lung tumors, deposition of fluid in lungs, heart diseases, heart infection, coronary blockage etc. CT chest plain exposes the patients to X-rays and long exposure of radiations can have side effects particularly in pregnant women. The more advanced form of CT scan is CECT (contrast enhanced computed tomography) which uses contrast material for the detection of abnormalities in the chest and associated organs.

CT Chest With Contrast (CECT Chest)

CECT chest or Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography chest is an advanced level of CT chest, which uses contrast material for the detection of abnormalities. This contrast material is given through IV and the patient is asked to wait for about 1 hour so that contrast reaches the chest and associated tissues. Contrast CT helps to create enhanced 3D images of the chest, which helps in easy and early detection of abnormalities. Early detection helps in effective treatment of the condition and increases the chances of effective treatment.

Purpose of CT Chest Plain

There are various purposes related to CT chest plain and these include:

• To look for lung cancer
• To look for lung tumors
• To look for lung infection and inflammation
• To look for blood vessels of chest
• To look for lymph nodes of chest
• Internal bleeding in chest
• Reason of chest pain
• Helps in treatment guidance
• Heart abnormalities and infections
• Heart structural abnormalities
• Functional abnormalities of heart
• Detecting foreign bodies in the chest
• To guide for the biopsies in the chest etc. 

Risks Related to CT Chest Plain

There are various risks associated with the CT chest plain and some of these risks are discussed below:

• Exposure to radiations and prolonged exposure can lead to cancers
• Allergies towards contrast material
• Can damage kidneys with contrast material
• Harmful for children because of sensitive skin
• Can cause skin burns in some cases
• Can affect the fetus during pregnancy, so it is avoided during this stage

Conclusion

CT chest plain or computed tomography chest is the diagnostic tool used for the detection of chest abnormalities like lung cancer, tumor, lung infection, collection of fluid within lungs etc. The procedure uses X-rays for the detection of abnormalities in the chest by creating 3D cross sectional images with the help of a computer. These images are detailed and help in detection of abnormalities more easily compared to simple X rays. CT chest plain can also be used with contrast called contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) chest. The use of contrast procedure gives more detailed images of the chest abnormalities. Various abnormalities detected by chest CT plain are related to lung infection, fluid buildup, heart diseases, vessel blockage etc. There are some risks associated with CT chest plain and these include exposure to radiation, allergies to contrast material, can cause burns etc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can chest CT scan detect heart abnormalities in the patient?

Yes, Chest CT scan is an effective test to detect heart abnormalities in the patient.

What is a CT Chest plain scan?

CT Chest plain scan is the diagnostic procedure that uses X-rays computed for the detection of abnormalities in the chest plain.

What is CT Chest plain scan with contrast?

CT Chest plain scan with contrast is also called CECT chest is a diagnostic tool that uses contrast material for more clear and detailed images of the chest.

What is the full form of CECT in CECT chest scan?

Full of CECT is contrast enhanced computed tomography in chest scan.

Can CT chest plain scan detect Chest cancer?

Yes, CT chest plain scan is an effective diagnostic tool in detection of Chest cancer.

Can CT chest scan plain detect chest tumors?

Yes, Chest scan plain is effective in detecting chest tumors.

What are the risks associated with CT chest plain test?

There are various risks associated with CT chest plain tests like exposure to radiation, allergies to contrast material, skin burns etc.

Which is the best diagnostic Center in Delhi for CT chest scan?

City imaging and clinical labs is the best diagnostic center for CT chest scan in Delhi.