What is a Lung Scan?
A lung scan in Frisco is defined as a type of nuclear imaging test. This test utilizes a tiny amount of radioactive matter during the scanning process. The radioactive matter also known as a tracer exhibits gamma rays. The scanner picks up the gamma rays and produces detailed images of the lungs. However, the scan is of two types including perfusion and ventilation.
A ventilation scan observes the movement of air in and out of the lungs. On the other hand, a perfusion scan observes the flow of blood within the lungs. In the ventilation scan, the radioactive tracer fills the lungs except for the area of the lungs where there is no air. In the perfusion scan, the radiactive tracer fills the lungs where there is blood except in the area where blood is not flowing. Further, there are some other types of lung scans as well such as CT lung scans, chest X-rays, chest ultrasounds, bronchoscopy or lung biopsy.
What is the Lung Scan Procedure?
You may be advised to get a lung scan procedure depending upon the condition. The lung scan procedure also depends upon the condition. However, these are some general guidelines for every scan.
- The removal of any metal objects and sometimes clothing is compulsory.
- In some cases, it is important to remove the clothing and the patient wears a gown.
- An IV line is given to the patient in the arm or hand for perfusion scans.
- The patient breathes in the gas-containing tracer through a mask. You may also be asked to hold your breath.
The lung scan procedure is not painful at all, but it may give a feeling of discomfort from lying still on the bed. However, the procedure does not take much time.
Should I Get a Lung Scan?
You will need to have a lung scan on the advice of your doctor or if you have these symptoms.
- Fast hearbeat
- Trouble in breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain in the chest not due to heart
- Any chronic lung disease
- Tumor or other blockage in the lungs
Are There Any Risks of Lung Scan?
There is no significant risk of lung scan as the amount of radioactive matter is very low. You may feel a light discomfort. However, you should tell these things to a healthcare provider before the scan.
- Any allergic to medicines or dye
- If you are breast-feeding
- If you are pregnant even a few weeks because the radioactive tracer is not good for the baby
- You should tell the doctor if you have any other health conditions
What are the Things to Consider Before a Lung Scan?
- Your healthcare provider will explain everything in detail to you.
- You would have to get an X-ray if you do not have one in the last 24 - 48 hours.
- Healthcare providers may offer a piece of advice depending on your condition.
Take care of Your Lung Health
If your doctor has advised a lung scan and you are looking for lung cancer screening near me. Then you may trust ViaScan of Las Colinas for any kind of lung scan. All the staff and radiologists are highly professional and well-trained to carry out lung scans in the most safest and best way. You may book an appointment to resolve any queries related to lung scans.