Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. At New York Medical Imaging Associates, we provide a quick test that has the potential to detect lung cancer at an early, treatable stage. An article in The Lancet (1999, 356:99-105) published results of a research study that concluded low-dose CT can greatly improve the likelihood of detection of early lung cancers.
Our practice has a state-of-the-art CT scanner available to screen at-risk patients for lung cancer. Helical CT screening has been shown to be more sensitive than conventional chest x-rays at detecting early lesions. The multidetector CT scanner takes an image in just 20 seconds by scanning continuously, rather than taking a series of pictures every 5-10 seconds like the traditional CT scan.
The examination requires no intravenous contrast injection and the actual scan is approximately 20 seconds. This is a low dose scan with no more radiation than a conventional chest x-ray. A CT lung screening is most valuable for anyone experiencing one or more of these risk factors:
Reimbursement for this examination is varies so patients should check with their insurance carrier prior to scheduling an examination so they understand their financial obligation at the time of service.