Imaging - chest CT
Choose the protocol before you order
| Protocol | Use | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Non-contrast | Nodules, ILD, follow-up, screening | Lowest dose, no renal or allergy issue |
| HRCT | Interstitial lung disease | Thin (1 mm) slices, inspiratory + expiratory + prone; expiratory phase detects air trapping = small airways disease; prone excludes dependent atelectasis mimicking fibrosis |
| CTPA | Pulmonary embolism | Timed to the pulmonary arteries |
| CT with contrast (portal venous) | Staging, mediastinum, pleura, infection | Assesses nodes, pleura, chest wall |
| CT bronchial/aortic angiogram | Haemoptysis, aortic disease | Maps bronchial arteries before embolisation |
| Low-dose CT | Lung cancer screening | ~1-2 mSv |
- Ordering "CT chest" without specifying the question gets you the wrong protocol and a repeat scan
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