CT scan of the chest

CT – computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. During the scanning process, the patient is placed on a table that moves slowly through a cylindrical machine, through which X-rays pass from multiple angles. A special program then combines the resulting images to create a three-dimensional image of the inside of the body. CT is used in the diagnosis of various health problems, including the detection of tumors, traumatic injuries, blood clots and other conditions. It is important to note that CT uses X-rays, which can represent a certain dose of radiation, so its use must be carefully considered in relation to the benefits and risks.

Chest CT at the Atrijum Clinic in Sarajevo

In the Atrijum polyclinic, CT thorax is performed on the modern CT scanner Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice.

CT thorax on the Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice device has several advantages compared to other CT devices:
High resolution: Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice has high image resolution.
Scanning speed: Thanks to the large number of detectors (in this case 160 slice), scanning is faster than on devices with fewer “slices”. This reduces the risk of motion artifacts, improves image quality, and reduces patient exposure to radiation.
Low radiation dose: Advanced image processing techniques, such as iterative reconstruction and the use of low-dose protocols, reduce the radiation dose needed to achieve high-quality images.
Precise diagnostics: High resolution and scanning speed enable precise diagnostics.
Patient comfort: Faster scanning reduces the time spent in the scanner, which improves patient comfort and reduces anxiety.

CT Thorax Examination

CT thorax examination is a diagnostic method in which layers of the thorax are imaged using a special device and X-rays, after which computer processing of data provides diagnostic information for assessing the patient’s thorax and mediastinum (chest and mediastinum).

This type of examination is used for diagnosing abnormalities in the lungs, detecting various chest diseases such as cough, difficulty breathing, chest pain or fever, assessing chest injuries (including heart, blood vessels, lungs, ribs and spine), then detecting benign and malignant tumors, pneumonia, tuberculosis, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, various pleura inflammations or other pleural diseases, interstitial and chronic lung diseases, as well as congenital abnormalities.

Through this type of diagnostic method, using the device and X-rays, layers of the thorax are imaged and diagnostic information for assessing your thorax and mediastinum is obtained through computer data processing.

Patient Preparation for CT Thorax Examination

No detailed preparation is needed for the examination itself, in terms of preparation several hours or days before the examination. Patients will be advised to remove metal parts they wear, such as clothing with metal parts and jewelry. After that, the patient is placed in a lying position and imaged with the CT machine.

Performing the CT Lung Examination

During the examination, the patient is alone in the room where the CT is located. The examination is performed on the Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice CT device.

After positioning the patient, the radiology engineer plans the examination field. The device is in the shape of a large ring containing a tube with X-rays and detectors. The table on which the patient lies moves forward and backward. During the examination, it is very important that the patient remains completely still, as even the slightest movements affect the quality of the examination.

The room is soundproofed, and throughout the entire examination, the radiology engineer who performs it monitors it.

If you are planning pregnancy, it would be best to perform the examination in the first 10 days of the menstrual cycle to avoid the harmful effects of radiation on a possible early pregnancy.

NOTE: Contrast medium, which is injected intravenously into the patient’s body, is used only in cases where the doctor has indicated it and decided that there are no contraindications for receiving the contrast medium.