Computed Tomography Exams

Computed Tomography (CT), also known as a CAT scan, is a diagnostic tool that can evaluate almost every part of the body, including the head, sinuses, chest, spine, abdomen, and pelvis. It assists physicians in determining the size and location of tumors, which is crucial for planning the most effective treatment strategy for various cancers.

PREPARATION:

CT scans of the spine, sinuses, extremities or chest do not require any preparation.

All other types of exams (i.e. head, abdomen, pelvis) require no eating, drinking, chewing gum or smoking four hours prior to the study except for prescribed medication.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. CAD occurs whenever arteries that carry oxygenated blood to the heart become clogged with plaque. The plaque build-up slows the blood-flow to the heart and increases the risk of myocardial infarction. Patients are usually diagnosed after they develop symptoms and display an abnormal response to invasive testing. Unfortunately, by that time, the atherosclerotic (plaque build-up) process is advanced and the opportunity for prevention has been missed.

Cardiac Calcium Score Exam

This test, designed for asymptomatic individuals, is quick, simple and non-invasive. The cardiac calcium scoring exam can assess the amount of calcified plaque in your coronary arteries and determine your risk for a heart attack. It is important to note that the clinical significance of a particular score is influenced by a patient’s age and gender. We encourage patients to work with their physicians to determine the significance of their CAD scores and to make changes in the assessment of their risk factors for heart disease.

Coronary CT Angiography Exam (CCTA)

This test, designed for patients who have already been diagnosed with acute or chronic chest pain, enables physicians to visualize blood flow, plaque, and blockages, making it a valuable diagnostic tool. It can reveal the presence of plaque in the coronary arteries and identify other potential causes of cardiovascular symptoms.

PREPARATION:

No eating, drinking, chewing gum or smoking for four hours prior to the study.

A virtual colonoscopy, the CT alternative to a conventional colonoscopy, uses computed tomography (CT) to examine the colon and rectum for presence of cancer or pre-cancerous polyps. Virtual colonoscopy can disclose tumors, bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease and diverticulosis.

A small soft tip rectal tube is placed to allow air into the colon. The patient is then scanned, first lying face up and then face down on the CT table. The recorded CT images are then assembled using a computer program that creates both 2 and 3-dimensional models that the radiologist examines for polyps and other colon abnormalities. The entire examination should take no longer than 30 minutes to complete.

PREPARATION:

To prepare for a virtual colonoscopy, the patient should follow a two-day low residual diet and use a bowel preparation kit obtained at one of our offices. Because no sedation is used for the exam, the patient may resume normal activity at its completion.

Startling as the facts may be, only 16% of lung cancers are diagnosed at their earliest, most curable stages. However, if caught early, patients can increase their treatment options, outcome and survival rate. Recent efforts from the National Cancer Institute aim to change survival rates. Low-dose screening CT scans can identify cancer before symptoms appear and assess the lungs for any indications of the disease.

Beneficiary eligibility criteria (All of the following criteria must be met)

• Age 50 – 77 years old
• Asymptomatic (no signs of symptoms of lung cancer)
• Tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years
• (one pack year = smoking one pack per day for one year; 1 pack = 20 cigarettes)
• Current smoker or one who has quit smoking within the last 15 years
• Receives a written order for LDCT lung cancer screening

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between LDCT and a regular CT of the chest? LDCT significantly reduces the radiation exposure to the patient compared to a standard CT.

Why don’t I always get LDCT? Although the radiation dose is reduced, the image quality is slightly inferior to a standard CT. The image quality is adequate for the purpose of screening for lung cancer but not as good for other diseases of the chest.

Do I need to get contrast through an IV in my arm? NO

How long does this test take? 10 minutes

If the results state that there are abnormal findings on my exam does that mean I have lung cancer? One out of every three patients will likely have findings on the CT scan that may require additional follow up. The vast majority of these findings will not turn out to be cancer. 

Who should I contact if I have any questions after the exam? Contact your primary physician. The complete report will be sent to the primary physician provided by you before the exam. The report will contain not only all the findings from the exam, but also recommendation for follow up. Your physician will need to be involved in ordering any additional tests.

How much does a LDCT cost? Medicare will cover annual screenings for those that meet the criteria. SJI will bill the patient’s insurance. However, if their insurance does not cover the exam, the payment will be the patient’s responsibility at a cost of $500. If there are abnormal findings on the initial exam, and follow up procedures are required, they will need to be approved by the patient’s insurer.

Should I get screened? 

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For questions about LDCT or to schedule an exam: Call 315-452-2004.

For more information, please visit The American Lung Association.