CT scan is a type of imaging test. It uses X-ray and computer technology to make detailed pictures of the organs and structures inside the patient’s chest. These images are more detailed than regular X-rays. They can give more information about injuries or diseases of the chest organs.

In a CT scan, an X-ray beam moves in a circle around the patient’s body. It takes many images, called slices, of the lungs and inside the chest. A computer processes these images and displays it on a monitor.

During the test, the patient may receive a contrast dye. This will make parts of the patient’s body show up better in the image.

Other related procedures that may be used to diagnose problems of the lungs and respiratory tract include bronchoscopy, bronchography, chest fluoroscopy,chest X-ray, chest ultrasound, lung biopsy, lung scan, mediastinoscopy, oximetry,peak flow measurement, positron emission tomography (PET) scan, pleural biopsy, pulmonary angiogram, pulmonary function tests, sinus X-ray and thoracentesis.