Computed Tomography of the Bilateral Pulmonary Respiratory System: Lungs, Trachea, Bronchi, Pleura and Diaphragm
This low-radiation computed tomography exam captures high-resolution cross-sectional images of the full bilateral pulmonary respiratory system, including lung parenchyma, the trachea, segmental and subsegmental bronchi, pleural membranes, and adjacent diaphragm, with no required intravenous contrast for standard lung disease evaluation. It serves as a first-line diagnostic and monitoring tool for acute and chronic respiratory pathologies including community-acquired pneumonia, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, small pulmonary nodules, pleural effusions, tracheobronchial strictures, and diaphragmatic dysfunction secondary to underlying lung disease, and its minimal effective radiation dose allows for safe repeated imaging to track disease progression or response to therapeutic interventions over time.
This radiation-based computed tomography exam generates high-resolution cross-sectional images of the bilateral lungs, trachea, bronchi, pleural linings, and diaphragm to diagnose, stage, and monitor both acute and chronic pulmonary pathologies.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- ct
- Body part
- chest · pulmonary
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 7
- Duration (min)
- 15
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- low
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- LOINC
- 24627-2
- SNOMED
- 169069000
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- any
- Cost tier
- moderate
Understanding CT Scan of lungs
Computed Tomography provides detailed visualization of lungs bilaterally. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This assessment detects pulmonary nodules, evaluates lung parenchyma, identifies respiratory infections, and stages thoracic malignancies.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 15 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This ct scan evaluates pulmonary, specifically lungs. Uses controlled radiation to create detailed images.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of lungs. Part of the respiratory system.
Common Uses
This exam is commonly used to detect pneumonia, identify lung tumors, evaluate lung function, and assess respiratory conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy