“Is a CT scan of the lungs safe?”

There is always a risk associated with any imaging, but it is important to weigh the risk/benefit ratio.
Does the benefit of finding a potentially treatable disease worth the risk? In most cases, yes.

Thank you for your important question. CT scanning for lung, or other body parts are performed by Radiologists with the understanding that these investigations are performed only following a thorough determination for the necessity for performing such a diagnostic test. Exposure to radiation is required for this test to 'see' the lung tissue. Radiologists have the ability to modulate the exposure to radiation associated with CT scanning. This means that the minimum exposure to radiation is generated to obtain an image of sufficient quality to differentiate between healthy lung tissue and the possible presence of unhealthy lung tissue. The concern is discussed by ordering physicians and Radiologists with patients when multiple exposures to the same body region is necessary to track, or to follow a potential disease process over time. This can in susceptible individuals potentially induce an adverse reaction generating a 'tumor'. In such conditions when multiple imaging is required, alternative image techniques can be offered, such as magnetic resonance imaging, commonly known as MRI. This technique does not use radiation, but it senses molecular activity of tissue my magnetism. Healthy tissue cells 'vibrate' at a different frequency than does unhealthy tissue, hence a skilled Radiologist can interpret the image, or 'read' the MRI and provide an opinion to the ordering physician, or surgeon whether treatment is to be offered for that patient. The question of how much is too much radiation exposure is taken very seriously by physicians, surgeons and Radiologists. This becomes a significant matter when children require serial imaging. Children if exposed to medical radiation sources, have a life time of chance to develop radiation induced tumors. Fortunately, Radiologists have techniques to suppress exposure to imaging radiation and as with adult imaging, alternative imaging by MRI is also an option. I appreciate your question and why it is important for all of us to be aware of why imaging for diagnostic purposes is being performed and ask if serial images are to be anticipated during the course of our medical care. GA Browne MD. FAAEM.FAADM.FRC.

Yes, CT scans of the lungs are generally considered safe, but there is a small potential risk associated with radiation exposure. To learn more, connect with me at drjeromepuryear.com. Thank you!