What is a Lung Scan? Reason(s) for the Examination:
A lung scan is used to help determine the cause of shortness of breath or chest pain; usually to evaluate for possible blood clots in the lungs, which may be life threatening. Determine how much of the lungs are ventilated and perfused with blood prior to surgery for lung cancer or emphysema.
Length of Exam:
Usually 45 minutes.
Description:
You will be asked to inhale a gas through a mask placed over your mouth and nose, followed by camera images of lungs inhaling and exhaling the gas. After adequate inhalation images, a blood flow tracer will be injected in a vein, followed by images of the blood flow to your lungs.