CT of lungs in Kharkiv

Computed tomography (CT) is a non-invasive and highly accurate diagnostic method based on the use of X-rays. During CT, the device sensors scan the examined part of the human body layer by layer (the thickness of the transverse “section” is about 0.7 mm). The series of images obtained during the scan is processed by a computer and converted into a high-definition three-dimensional image.

CT of chest scans the lungs, bronchi, heart, large blood vessels, thoracic esophagus, and lymph nodes. The examination is performed by medical prescription.

Indications for CT of lungs

CT of lungs is prescribed to examine the state of bronchopulmonary system. Tomography of lungs is more often used as a secondary diagnostic method when pathological changes are found on a fluorogram, X-ray or ultrasound of the patient’s lungs that require detailed study.

Computer diagnostics of lungs is indicated in the presence of the following diseases:

• pneumonia (inflammation of lungs);
• coronavirus infection;
• tuberculosis;
• tumors;
• pleurisy (inflammation of the lungs lining);
• pulmonary emphysema;
• congenital anomalies of the structure of lungs and bronchi;
• pulmonary endometriosis;
• fibrosing alveolitis;
• granulomatosis of lungs;
• metastases in lymph nodes or thoracic organs;
• chest injuries.

 CT of lungs in case of pneumonia allows detail examining of all segments of the lung tissue and bronchi, as well as determining the localization and size of focal inflammatory lesions. Based on the tomography results, the doctor can develop effective tactic for treating pneumonia, preventing the development of complications.

Tomography is also the leading method for diagnosing pulmonary endometriosis. Pulmonary endometriosis on CT is defined as areas filled with infiltration (blood clots).

Computed tomography is recognized as one of the main methods for diagnosing malignant and benign neoplasms. A lung tumor on CT can be detected at an early stage, when it has not yet reached a large size. In addition, examination of lungs reveals the presence of metastases in thoracic organs.

CT of lungs in case of coronavirus makes it possible to quickly assess the severity and extent of the inflammatory process. With the help of examination, it is possible with a high degree of accuracy to distinguish viral pneumonia caused by a coronavirus from bacterial or other. Healthy lungs appear black on CT, as they are filled with air. In the images of the lungs affected by coronavirus infection, white spots are visible - ground-glass opacity. Such focal changes in the lungs on CT are caused by inflammation and accumulation of fluid in the alveoli or replacement of the lung tissue with scar tissue.

The examination lasts from 15 to 30 minutes, rarely - up to 60 minutes. The results of CT of lungs are handed to the patient immediately after the examination.

Contraindications to contrast CT of lungs 

CT of chest cavity with contrast enhancement is performed when it is necessary to clearly distinguish between healthy and pathologically altered tissues, for example, in the presence of inflammation or suspicion of a tumor. But not many patients know what CT contrast agent is, and that this procedure has contraindications.

CT contrast fluid is a drug that contains iodine molecules and is given intravenously. The contrast blocks the passage of X-rays through the tissues, so it looks almost white in the images.

Contraindications for contrast CT of lungs:

• hyperthyroidism and other pathologies of thyroid gland;
• severe diabetes mellitus;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• bronchial asthma;
• general grave condition of a patient; 
• heart disease with 3-4 stage heart failure (or recent heart attacks);
• moderate to severe allergy to contrast media

 In very rare cases, contrast CT can result in a skin rash (hives), itching, or another allergic reaction. Relative contraindications to contrast computed tomography of lungs are diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease - before the examination, it is necessary to assess the state of renal function (uric acid, urea, creatinine).

It is necessary to discuss in advance the possibility of administering CT contrast agent with the attending physician or anesthesiologist if the patient is taking the following:

• beta-blockers (drugs for treatment of hypertension, tachycardia, coronary heart disease);
• guanidines;
• interleukin (immunomodulator);
• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances;
• Glucophage (metformin). It is necessary to stop taking the drug 3 days before CT with iodine-containing contrast agent.

Preparation for CT of lungs in case of COVID-19

No special preparation for CT of lungs without contrast agent is required in case of COVID-19. Before starting the procedure, you must provide the radiologist with a doctor's referral along with his contact information, as well as the results of all previous examinations (if any) regarding the disease.

Appointment for contrast CT of lungs in case of COVID-19 is carried out by medical prescription. Before the examination, the doctor refers the patient for laboratory tests (uric acid, urea, creatinine) - package ON Lab No. 44 “Kidney tests (small)”. If the patient has a fresh (no later than 10 days) test for creatinine (without urea and uric acid), then if there is a referral from a doctor, the appointment for CT of lungs is made for him/her on the day of treatment.

Do not eat two hours before CT of chest with intravenous contrast. Before the examination, it is necessary to take off jewelry from the neck, as well as the piercing in the chest area. It is recommended to wear loose clothing without metal elements.

CT of lungs for children

CT of lungs for children is performed only if there are indications, as well as in cases where other diagnostic methods are of little information. Despite the fact that the radiation dose for CT of lungs is minimal, it is not recommended for children under three years. The exceptions are cases when the advantages of computed tomography for a child are higher than the possible risk to his/her health.

During the procedure, the child must lie still on the couch, therefore, for young children under the age of 3-5 who cannot comply with this condition, CT of lungs is done under general anesthesia. Contrast CT of lungs for children is performed after prior consultation with a pediatrician.

The medical center “ON Clinic Kharkiv” uses innovative computer tomograph Siemens SOMATOM go.Up. The device allows performing fast and high-quality scanning with a low dose of radiation. In one revolution, the scanner's sensor takes 64 high-quality cross-sectional images, which makes it possible to scan large ranges in just one breath.

You can undergo CT of lungs in Kharkiv at the medical center “ON Clinic Kharkiv”. To make appointment for examination, fill out the online application or call the phone number listed on the website.