Lung Scan

What is a Lung Scan?

A Lung Scan helps diagnose pulmonary embolism via evaluation of air and blood flow to the lungs.

What takes place during the test?

There are two steps to a Lung Scan. Step one to evaluate air flow to the lings requires you to breathe a radioactive aerosol material through a small mask similar to an oxygen mask for approximately 10 minutes. Step two requires a small injection of radionuclide material in the arm followed by a 45 minute to 1 hour scan of the lungs. During the scan, you will lie on the imaging table with the camera positioned above or below you while several images are taken.

How long will the test take to complete?

Approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes.