Chest tomogram

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Normal external abdomen

Overview

Risks

Results

Chest tomogram

Definition:

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.

Alternative Names:
Laminagraphy; Planigraphy; Stratigraphy; Tomogram - chest
How the test is performed:

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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.

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this test depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following:

Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

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).