Low-dose chest CT (LDCT)
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in adults, including non-smokers. Smoking is the main cause of lung cancer in 85-90% of cases, and the risk of lung cancer does not decrease for many years after quitting smoking. Worldwide, an estimated 1.6 million people die from lung cancer each year.
Several characteristics of lung cancer reinforce the need for effective screening. The ability to detect early cancer can both increase overall cure rates and allow less invasive surgery to achieve a cure.
How does it work, what are the benefits?
Low-dose CT (LDCT) for lung cancer screening is the only proven effective method to reduce lung cancer mortality in high-risk individuals (e.g., long-term smokers).
New multidetector CT scanners produce high-resolution images with significantly less radiation exposure than diagnostic chest CT. LDCT refers to a non-contrast examination performed with a multidetector CT scanner with a single maximum inspiratory hold scan time of less than 25 seconds. The high-resolution images (1.0-2.5 mm intervals) are reconstructed using a soft tissue or thin-section algorithm.
Its advantage is that it involves minimal radiation dose exposure and does not require preparation. In the event of a negative result, coronary artery disease and lung cancer can be ruled out with a high probability for 3-5 years.
What types of diseases can a low-dose chest CT scan help diagnose?
LDCT is much more sensitive in detecting smaller tumours than a chest X-ray: it is suitable for simultaneous screening not only for cardiovascular disease but also for lung cancer.
How to prepare for a low-dose chest CT scan?
The scan does not require any special preparation.
How is a low-dose chest CT scan performed?
The scan takes a few minutes and is not uncomfortable. The patient must hold their breath for 25 seconds once.
When can a low-dose chest CT scan not be performed?
This scan uses X-rays, therefore screening during pregnancy is not recommended, as it can be dangerous for the foetus.
What should you expect after the scan?
The results are not a diagnosis in themselves. After the scan, please always consult a specialist with the results.
When can the results of the low-dose chest CT scan be expected?
The completed scan is reviewed by a radiologist and the results become available in our online system after 3 working days.