CT THORAX & LOWER NECK

A CT scan of thorax and lower neck refers to a diagnostic imaging tests that combines the use of X-ray with computer processing to generate sectional images of the chest and lower neck region. It is done in order to evaluate lesions of the lungs, mediastinum and other associated soft tissues.  

What is CT Thorax and Lower Neck? 

Like any other CT scan, CT of thorax and lower neck is done using a combination of X-ray and computer. A patient is required to lie down on a table that moves into the aperture of a large cylindrical structure. The structure rotates around the patient while shooting X-rays that go through the tissues. The X-ray sensors capture the rays and send them to a computer, which uses the information to create detailed images. 

Types of CT Thorax and Lower Neck 

CT of the thorax and lower neck region can be categorized into two types:  

• Non- Contrast CT: This type of imaging uses no contrast dye and is primarily performed for assessing lung nodules, lung tumours, or any other abnormalities in the lungs.  
• Contrast Enhanced CT: This type of imaging utilizes contrast dye for assessment of vascular structures. It is primarily done to assess vascular pathologies like atherosclerosis. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Scan of Thorax and Lower Neck

During the examination, doctors pay attention to the following:  

• Tumors or nodules in the lungs. 
• Effusions and other abnormalities in the pleura. Masses and lymphadenopathy in the mediastinum. 
• Bronchial and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). 
• Vascular diseases such as atheroma and pulmonary embolism. 

Reasons for Taking a CT Thorax and Lower Neck

A patient may be prescribed a CT scan of the thorax and lower neck when they experience the following symptoms:  

• Cancerous tumours in the lungs or thorax. 
• Pneumonia or other pulmonary infections. 
• Pleural effusion or lung-related diseases. 
• Respiratory conditions like acute bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 
• Vascular conditions like atheromatic lesions and pulmonary embolism. 

When and Who Needs to Take A CT Thorax and Lower Neck? 

Patients with the following symptoms or conditions may require a CT scan of the thorax and lower neck:  

• Chest pain or discomfort 
• Blood or rusty sputum coughed up 
• Dyspnoea or wheezing 
• Fever or chills 
• Trauma to the chest area 
• Possible lung cancer or other thoracic tumours 
• Unusual findings on a prior x-ray 

Those who are most likely to be recommended this test include:  

• Current smokers or ex-smokers 
• Those who have been in contact with asbestos 
• People at risk for lung cancer or any other diseases pertaining to the thorax 
• Patients showing signs indicating thoracic condition 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Advantages of a thoracic and lower neck CT scan include:  

• Precise evaluation of thoracic pathologies. 
• Monitoring progression or response to treatment. 
• Detecting lung cancer or tumours in the chest at an advanced but treatable stage. 
• Evaluation of vascular conditions like atheroma and pulmonary emboli. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Thorax and Lower Neck

Alongside sore necks, common conditions diagnosed with a thoracic and lower neck CT scan include:  

• Lung cancer 
• Lung Infection (Pneumonia) 
• Inflammation of The Pleura (Pleurisy) 
• Bronchiectasis 
• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) 
• Hardening of the Arteries (Atherosclerosis) 
• Blood Clots in The Lungs (Pulmonary Embolism) 

Preparing for CT Thorax and Lower Neck

• Dress in loose clothing that does not restrain or have metal clasps 
• Take off metal jewellery or any other metal piece 
• Do not eat or drink anything for around four to six hours before the examination 
• Let the technician know about any allergies or relevant medical history. 

Pre-requisites 

A patient does not require any specific pre-requisites before undergoing a CT scan of the thorax and lower neck. Nonetheless, they might have to: 

• Outline their medical history and ongoing medication list 
• Agree to an Informed Consent Form 
• Disclosure of any metal or jewelry they are wearing 

Best Time to Take the CT Thorax and Lower Neck 

Patients can take the test at any convenience, but the test should be done at a time when the patient is most relaxed, so they stay still. 

Eligibility 

The exam is usually advised for patients who are: 

• Likely to develop lung cancer or other diseases of the chest cavity. 
• Showing signs of a chest disease. 
• Requiring surveillance for disease progression or response to treatment. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Thorax and Lower Neck 

In general, the test lasts between 15 to 30 minutes. The procedure consists of the following steps: 

1. Lying down on a bed that moves to the CT scanner 
2. Following the technician’s breathing instructions, which requires holding still and taking deep breaths 
3. Getting contrast material injected through a cannula (if needed) 
4. Remaining still as the scanner turns around the body. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients need to tell the technician about the following: 

• Any conditions or allergies. 
• Any drugs or nutritional supplements being consumed. 
• Any recent illnesses or infections. 
• Previous history of kidney problems or other illnesses that may compromise the results of the test.