An ultra-low-dose computer tomography of the lung (thorax) is recommended for all long-time smokers over the age of 50 in order to visualise any changes (cancer, emphysema, bronchitis) at an early stage. And yet: Benign and malignant changes cannot always be differentiated with a CT scan – follow-up examinations are often required.
About the appointment
We offer this examination at the following locations in Vienna.
Well-informed in all matters
Requirements for smoker screenings
- Please bring any previous findings (CT, X‑ray results, lung function tests, etc.) to the examination.
Important information
- A thoracic CT is performed with low-dose X‑ray radiation and a contrast agent.
- An examination is recommended for those who have smoked for more than 25 pack years. A pack year is calculated from the number of daily consumed cigarette packs multiplied by the years a person has smoked.
- An inconspicuous CT is not a free pass to continue smoking. We recommend that smokers combine their screening with one of the available methods for quitting.
Procedure for a smoker screening
- The examination does not take longer than two minutes.
- It is completely painless.
- The CT image is taken while the patient inhales deeply. You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.