What to expect during a lung scan

Lung scans are an important tool to find lung cancer early in people with a high risk for the disease. If you have a history of smoking, you may be a good candidate for a lung scan.

At Advocate Health Care, we aim to make it as easy as possible for you to get the care you need. We offer multiple convenient locations throughout the Chicago metro area. We get you answers quickly to offer peace of mind or so you can start your path to lifesaving treatment right away.

How do I prepare for a lung scan?

You typically don’t need to do anything special to prepare for a lung scan. You may need to reschedule the test if you develop a respiratory infection or have recently recovered from one. Respiratory infections can show up on CT scans and lead to inaccurate results.

On the day of the test, avoid wearing any metal. You’ll need to remove glasses, jewelry and hearing aids. You may need to change into a hospital gown if you’re wearing any clothing that contains metal, such as jeans with a metal closure or an underwire bra.

What happens during a lung scan?

When it’s time for your lung scan:

1. You go into a room with the CT machine.
2. You lie flat on your back on a long table. Your technologist goes into another room. They’ll still be able to see and talk to you to give instructions.
3. The table moves into a large, donut-shaped machine.
4. When in position, the table moves quickly while the machine takes images of your lungs from all angles. You may hear clicking or whirring sounds.

Your technologist will ask you to remain still throughout the test. You may need to hold your breath briefly while they take the images.

How long does a lung scan take?

You should plan for your appointment to take around 30 minutes. The actual lung scan only lasts a minute or so. You can return home and resume your usual activities immediately after the scan.

Is a lung scan painful?

No, a lung scan isn’t painful. It’s noninvasive and lasts only a minute or two.

How will I receive my results?

You will receive a letter or phone call from your provider with the results as they become available. A radiologist, a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions with medical imaging, interprets your scan and shares their findings with your doctor.

What do lung scan results mean?

After your lung scan, you may receive results that are:

• Positive: Positive results mean your scan showed something out of the ordinary, usually a nodule. Positive results don’t automatically mean you have cancer. You’ll likely need further testing to figure out exactly what the abnormality means.
• Negative: Negative results mean the scan didn’t show anything unusual on your lungs. Your doctor will let you know if and when you need to get screened again. Learn more about when to get a lung scan.
• Indeterminate: You may have a very small nodule or other abnormality that doesn’t require immediate follow-up. Your doctor often recommends "watchful waiting" to see if the nodule grows and will suggest follow-up testing at a later date.

What happens if I need further screening?

If your lung scan is positive, your doctor may recommend additional tests to find out more. You may have a:

• Biopsy: Your doctor removes a small lung tissue sample to examine under a microscope.
• PET scan: You receive an injection of a radiotracer, a harmless chemical compound that gathers in your lungs and gives off energy. A PET scanner detects the energy and creates detailed images, allowing your doctor to look closely at your lungs’ structure and function.

Learn more & schedule a lung cancer screening

Get started with a lung cancer screening by scheduling an appointment with your primary care provider. You’ll discuss risk factors and determine if a lung screening is right for you.

If you have questions about lung cancer screening, call us at 800-252-2990.