A tomogram refers to a slice, or section, which is imaged by moving the X-ray tube and recording film simultaneously and in opposite directions. This method serves to blur out structures in front of and behind the area of interest.
The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider’s office by an X-ray technician. You will be asked to lie on your back on the X-ray table. You will need to remain still during the test.
How to prepare for the test:
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. You must wear a hospital gown. You must remove all jewelry.
How the test will feel:
There is generally no discomfort associated with tomography.
Why the test is performed:
Tomography is used to further examine a chest lesion when other tests are inconclusive.
The test will show pulmonary densities (cavitation, calcification, and presence of fat in the lungs), tumors, or lesions (any breakdown of the tissue).
Review Date: 1/24/2005
Reviewed By: Jeffrey J. Brown, M.D., F.A.C.R., Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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