HRCT Chest Scan: Uses, Procedure and Preparation
Healthcare providers usually suggest this test to detect and monitor lung conditions. During the procedure, you will be asked to lie still on a table while the CT scanner moves around you to take X-ray images from different angles. These images are then combined to create detailed three-dimensional (3D) images. Let us learn more about this test in detail while answering your question of where to find the HRCT chest near me.
What is the difference between HRCT and CT Scan?
HRCT scans provide clearer and more detailed images of the lungs than a routine CT scan. Unlike a routine CT scan, an HRCT captures very thin slices of the chest, usually about 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm thick, giving your healthcare provider a detailed view of the structures inside the lungs.
Key differences to consider:
- Image clarity: HRCT delivers more sharper, thinner and more in-depth images of the lungs, while a standard CT gives broader images of your chest.
- Slice thickness: HRCT uses very thin sections that help to detect even the smallest changes in your lungs, such as early fibrosis, airway diseases, and tiny nodules.
- Contrast use: HRCT is usually performed without the contrast dye while some CT scans may need contrast depending upon what the healthcare provider wants to assess.
- Detects minor changes: HRCT includes images taken while you breathe in and out, or while you lie in different positions. Considered a small change, this can help to detect air trapping or subtle lung changes.
Doctors may recommend an HRCT scan in cases such as:
- Chest discomfort
- Breathlessness
- Frequent lung infections
- Abnormal findings on a chest X-ray
- Low oxygen levels
- Persistent cough
- Risk of lung fibrosis
- Follow-up after COVID-19 pneumonia
Where to find the HRCT scan chest near me?
If your query is to find the HRCT chest scan near me, visit a diagnostic centre that offers advanced CT imaging services. Before booking the scan, check whether the centre provides HRCT chest scans and has the required CT imaging facilities. Your healthcare provider can also help you choose a suitable diagnostic centre based on your medical needs.
How to prepare for this test?
You will be asked to wear comfortable and loose clothes and avoid wearing jwellery on the day of your test. As metal can interfere with the images, it is better if you remove any kind of metal you are wearing. Other than that, make sure you let your provider know about these:
- Share if you are pregnant so your healthcare provider can inform you if a CT scan is safe during pregnancy.
- If you feel anxious in closed spaces.
- Medical history or if you are on medication.
Procedure
In the first step, your healthcare provider will help you lie on the table while positioning you on your back or belly.
In this, the bed will slide into a scanning machine that almost appears like a tube.
The scanner will rotate around you to take the pictures, and the table will move forward and backward.
You will be guided to either breathe in, breathe out or hold your breath at a certain point of time during the scan.
After scanning all the pictures, you will be asked to get up.
What happens after the test?
HRCT test is typically a painless and non-invasive procedure which does not require any special preparation like fasting. After the test is conducted, you can return to your normal day-to-day activities and can eat and drink normally while expecting the test results in a quick turnaround time.
Conclusion
HRCT is a test that can help your doctor take a closer look at your lungs. By catching even the minute details, this test helps to understand changes in your small airways, alveOli and the tissues surrounding them. Though after getting the test results, some people may feel nervous, it is better if you talk to your healthcare provider to understand what treatment is right for you.
FAQs
1. What is an HRCT chest scan used for?
An HRCT chest scan provides detailed images of the lungs. It can help doctors detect and monitor conditions affecting the airways and lung tissues.
2. Is an HRCT chest scan painful?
No, an HRCT scan is generally painless and non-invasive. You only need to lie still while the scanner captures images of your chest.
3. Do I need to fast before an HRCT chest scan?
Usually, fasting is not required for an HRCT chest scan. However, follow any specific instructions given by your healthcare provider.
4. How long does an HRCT chest scan take?
The actual scanning process is usually quick, however the total time can vary depending on the imaging centre and your specific scan.
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