Table of Contents
What is a CT scan of the thorax for?
To determine the size, shape, and position of organs in the chest and upper abdomen. To look for bleeding or fluid collections in the lungs or other areas. To look for infection or inflammation in the chest. To look for blood clots in the lungs.
How do you check CT thorax?
In a CT scan, an X-ray beam moves in a circle around your body. It takes many images, called slices, of the lungs and inside the chest. A computer processes these images and displays it on a monitor. During the test, you may receive a contrast dye.
How long does a CT scan of the thorax take?
How long does the test take? The test will take about 30 to 60 minutes. Most of this time is spent getting ready for the scan. The actual test only takes a few minutes.
Why would a doctor order a chest CT scan?
Doctors use chest CT to: examine abnormalities found on chest x-rays. help diagnose the causes of signs or symptoms of chest disease, such as cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, or fever. detect and evaluate the extent of tumors that arise in the chest, or tumors that have spread there from other parts of the body.
What is a thorax CT scan with contrast?
During a CT scan of the chest pictures are taken of cross sections or slices of the thoracic structures in your body. The thoracic structures include your lungs, heart and the bones around these areas. When contrast is used during a CT scan of the chest thoracic structures are highlighted even more.
What is the cost of a chest CT scan?
Average Prices, Select CT Scan Procedures
| CPT/HCPCS CODE | Procedure Description | Average (Estimated) Total |
|---|---|---|
| 74177 | CT Abdomen & Pelvis w/ Cont | $1,160 |
| 74176 | CT Abdomen & Pelvis w/o Cont | $751 |
| 71260 | $CT Chest w/ Cont | $1,160 |
| 71270 | CT Chest w/o & w/ Cont | $1,294 |
Why am I having a CT thorax and abdomen with contrast?
Abdominal CT scans are used when a doctor suspects that something might be wrong in the abdominal area but can’t find enough information through a physical exam or lab tests. Some of the reasons your doctor may want you to have an abdominal CT scan include: abdominal pain. a mass in your abdomen that you can feel.
Why do you need a blood test before a CT scan?
Blood test: You may need a blood test before your scheduled CT scan. The blood test will make sure the healthcare provider chooses the right dye. Diet restrictions: You will need to watch what you eat and drink for the four hours before your CT scan.
What is CT thorax with contrast?