Computer tomography of lungs for children. Prices, reviews, ratings
Computer tomography of the lungs is a method of layer-by-layer study based on the use of X-ray radiation. It is carried out in two modes. In the first case, the organs of the mediastinum are studied, and in the second, cracks in the vessels and partitions are detected. More data is obtained by resorting to CT of the chest.
Computer tomography of the lungs is a method of layer-by-layer study based on the use of X-ray radiation. It is carried out in two modes. In the first case, the organs of the mediastinum are studied, and in the second, cracks in the vessels and partitions are detected. More data is obtained by using chest CT.
General information
This method allows you to determine the exact area of the spread of pathology to adjacent tissues or the area of injury to the sternum, as well as hidden pathologies that are inaccessible with other methods. Three-dimensional imaging allows you to see all the details of organs and detected diseases, the extent of lesions, their localization, nature, and relationship with other tissues.
Some parents consider CT of the lungs for children inappropriate due to the risk of radiation. But doctors prescribe the procedure if the benefits outweigh the risks, and the radiation dose can also be adjusted depending on weight. Therefore, it can be reduced for children. An alternative is MRI, but this study does not have sufficient visualization of the respiratory organs, since it poorly reflects objects in motion.
There are two types of CT of the lungs for children - spiral or multispiral. The tomograph is a couch moving through a rotating X-ray unit. The CT unit takes transverse images, which are obtained due to the fact that all tissues reflect ionizing radiation differently. A computer station is connected to the device, processing the data and producing images. Spiral and more advanced multispiral tomographs scan large areas in a matter of seconds, which is a significant advantage of this examination method.
Procedure
Preparation
Children do not need special preparation for CT of the lungs, but if contrast is used, the baby should not be fed for 6-8 hours. It is necessary to inform the doctor about all medications that the child is taking, whether he has had allergic reactions, about recent and chronic diseases.
Computed tomography of the lungs for children
The child should be dressed in loose clothing that is easy to remove. Before the procedure, you will need to undress him to the waist, remove all metal objects. Then he is laid on the diagnostic table. During the session, he can lie on his back, possibly with his arms raised up or face down. You won't have to stay in this position for long, the procedure lasts from one to seven minutes. There are no unpleasant or painful sensations, but movement is prohibited.
Anesthesia is used to ensure the child's immobility. Its doses are calculated so that the baby wakes up immediately after the examination is completed. But it may take time for him to come to his senses, so you should not leave the clinic right away.
During scanning of some areas, contrast agents are administered intravenously. The radiologist sits at a computer in an adjacent room separated by a window and controls the examination process. Communication with the child is possible via an intercom. He may be asked to hold his breath for a short time.
Indications
CT of the lungs is prescribed to children to diagnose abnormalities that are not visible on conventional X-rays. For example:
- if there is a suspicion of changes in the functioning of the thymus gland;
- the presence of neoplasms or fluid in the pleura;
- inflammation of the lymph nodes;
- if foreign bodies enter the lungs.
This method determines the appearance of metastases, the method is used to control biopsy and bronchoscopy, as well as to monitor patients after radiation therapy or surgery.
Contraindications
The multiple tests deserve special attention. The radiation exposure in this case may exceed the permissible limit, so it is worth making sure that they are necessary and checking whether all parameters are taken into account (child's weight, type of study, etc.). When using a contrast study, it is necessary to take into account the presence of an allergy to iodine and chronic kidney disease.
Complications
The dose of radiation received is very small, but there is always a risk of developing cancer. When contrast is administered, fever, a metallic taste in the mouth, and the urge to urinate may occur.
Prices and clinics
Which clinics perform CT scans of the lungs for children, who performs it, how much the service costs and reviews about it - you will find all this and much more useful information on the website .
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