Low-Dose Chest CT

What is a Low-Dose Chest CT?

A computed tomography (CT) scan is invaluable for screening, diagnosing, staging, and managing cancer. This advanced imaging technique is a specialized form of X-ray that produces detailed cross-sectional “slices” of organs, bones, and tissues. When these slices are combined on a computer, they create a high-resolution, three-dimensional view of the internal areas of the body, enabling your care team to identify even minor abnormalities.

CT scans involve ionizing radiation, but the levels are comparable to or slightly higher than natural background radiation from cosmic rays and radon. Despite this, even minimal radiation exposure could increase the risk of future health issues.

To mitigate these risks, your doctor may request that the CT scan be performed with the lowest radiation dose necessary to obtain precise results. Additionally, in some cases, your doctor might opt for a low-dose CT (LDCT), which, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, can reduce radiation exposure by up to five times compared to a standard CT scan.

Preparing for your Low-Dose CT Scan

There are two types of CT scans—those done with contrast, and those done without contrast. Your preparation instructions will be different depending on which type of CT scan you are scheduled to have.

If you are scheduled to have a CT scan without contrast, you do not need to prepare for the exam. Unless otherwise directed by your physician, you may continue taking medication and eating as usual.

If you are scheduled to have a CT scan with contrast, you may need to follow special instructions, but not all contrast studies require a fast or oral contrast.

If you do have special instructions, they may include:

  • Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before your CT scan.

  • Have blood tests performed several days before your CT scan if your physician requires them.

  • NOTE: If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, you must tell your imaging technologist before your CT scan starts. Radiation exposure can be harmful to an unborn baby.

  • You should come to the imaging facility wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that do not have any metal snaps or buttons.

  • Before your CT scan starts, our imaging technologists will ask you questions about your health and surgical history. You will also have an opportunity to ask our imaging staff any questions that you may have about the procedure.

Requirements specific to lung cancer screenings

  • Age: 50-77

  • Asymptomatic (No signs or symptoms of lung cancer)

  • Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years (one pack-year = smoking one pack per day for one year; 1 pack)

  • Current smoker or one who has quit smoking within the last 15 years