Chest tomogram - Overview

Alternative Names

Laminography; Planigraphy; Stratigraphy; Tomogram - chest

Definition of Chest tomogram:

A chest tomogram is a picture of the chest area created by moving the x-ray machine in one direction while moving the recording film the other way. This method blurs structures in front of and behind the area of the chest being studied. This allows for a more detailed view of a specific level within the chest cavity.

How the test is performed:

The test is performed in a hospital radiology department by an x-ray technician. You will be asked to lie on your back on the x-ray table. You should not move during the test, as this will affect the image quality.

How to prepare for the test:

Tell the health care provider if you are pregnant. You must wear a hospital gown and remove all jewelry.

How the test will feel:

There is generally no discomfort associated with tomography.

Why the test is performed:

A chest tomogram can show certain problems with the airways or lungs, including tumors.

Normal external abdomen

Reviewed last on: 8/13/2010
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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