Low-dose lung CT for smokers
LDCT · low-dose CT · lung cancer screening · lung CT for smokers
A CT scan of the chest with a lower radiation dose. It looks for small changes in the lungs before you have any complaints.
Usually for older people who smoke a lot or used to. Your doctor decides whether you need it.
⏱ Duration: the scan itself takes a few minutes, the report usually comes in 1 to 3 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Preparation. No special preparation is needed. You can eat.
- Clothing. No metal on your chest: take off chains and a bra with underwire.
- Earlier scans. Bring earlier CT scans - the doctor needs to compare.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Earlier CT scans and reports
- Your ID
How it goes
- You lie on your back on the scanner table, arms above your head
- The table slides into the ring of the scanner
- You are asked to breathe in and hold your breath
- The scan takes a few seconds
- The table slides out - and that is all
What you'll feel
- It does not hurt
- The scanner is open, it is not a tight tube
Afterwards
- You can leave right away
- The report is usually ready in 1 to 3 days
- If small nodules are found, most often a follow-up scan is set after some time - the doctor decides
Common questions
If a nodule is found, is it cancer?
Most often not. Most nodules are harmless. The doctor will tell you whether follow-up is needed.
How often should it be done?
Usually once a year, while there is a reason for it. The doctor decides.
Will it help to quit smoking?
Yes. It is the best thing for your lungs at any age.