My Mom had surgery 4 years ago to get the fluid out, but it came back now. They said she had a quart of fluid then but just a small amout this time. They are running all kinds of tests today.
Just worried......
2006-07-02 05:57:43 · 3 answers · asked by Terry C 2 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
The ventilation/perfusion scan assesses both the blood supply to the lung and the ventilated area of the lung as well as the matching of the ventilated area of the lung to the areas of blood supply. Usually, the perfusion part of the scan is done first, and this phase often gives a lot of information about what is going on. The isotope is given IV and the lungs are imaged. The patient then is given an inhaled agent, and the lungs are imaged. the sets of images are compared and this comparison of the ventilation (V) and the perfusion (Q) series give the possible diagnosis.
Used to be the test of choice for pulmonary emboli, but has other uses.
Good luck, hope everything goes well.
2006-07-02 06:18:12 · answer #1 · answered by Bufford M 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
What is a VQ lung scan?
Your doctor has suggested you/your child have a VQ lung scan as part of the evaluation at National Jewish. A VQ scan is a test that shows how the air goes into the lungs. It also shows how blood circulates through the lungs. Your doctor will use this information to determine the best treatment for you.
How do you get ready for the test?
Wear loose fitting clothing. Avoid clothing that has metal or other clothing fasteners like buttons or zippers over the chest. You can be given a gown to wear if this is not possible.
You may have a chest x-ray done before the test starts.
What is done during the test?
The nuclear medicine technologist will explain the VQ scan to you before you start. Ask questions if you don’t understand. The technologist will have you/your child remove clothing that has metal or other clothing fasteners like buttons or zippers. You will be given a hospital gown and/or pajama bottoms to wear if this is not possible. You will lie on an imaging table during the VQ scan. It is important to lie still during the VQ scan.
You will start the test by breathing in a radioactive gas mixed with oxygen. A radioisotope has a low level of radioactivity so it can be seen during the scan. While you breathe in the gas, images will be taken to show the air going into the lungs.
Next a liquid radioisotope will be injected into a vein. This is in a liquid form. This will show how blood circulates through the lungs. After this is done, at least 8 images will be taken.
The VQ scan does not hurt. You will feel a prick when the liquid is injected.
How long will the test take?
A VQ scan will take about 1 hour to complete.
How do you get to your test?
Your appointment is in radiology. Radiology is in the basement of the May building.
On the day of your test, first report to the Admissions Desk just inside the Main Entrance. Then, take the elevator in the lobby just north of the Main Entrance down one floor to the basement. Follow the signs to radiology (left down the hall, then right to the radiology reception and check-in area).
If you have questions, or will not be able to make your appointment, please call: 303-398-1611.
Get directions to and see a campus map of National Jewish.
This information has been approved by John Newell, M.D., and Will Cook, R.T., M.A. (June 2006).
http://www.njc.org/disease-info/tests/VQ_Lung_Scan.aspx
2006-07-02 14:33:09 · answer #2 · answered by Sancira 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I will pray for her . I have been going through similar problems with my Mom too . She has had open heart surgery and colon cancer surgery both . God bless you and her .
2006-07-02 13:03:43 · answer #3 · answered by robinhoodcb 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋