CT Lung Ventilation Analysis Software (CTLVAS)™ scan

CT LVAS uses CT imaging of the chest to help your doctor understand how your lungs function when breathing.

CT Lung Ventilation Analysis Software (CTLVAS)™ scan

CT LVAS uses CT imaging of the chest to help your doctor understand how your lungs function when breathing.

What is CT LVAS?

CT LVAS, or Computed Tomography Lung Ventilation Analysis Software, uses chest CT scans to create detailed lung images. These images show how your lungs work during breathing, aiding doctors in understanding lung function without the need for special dye. It requires two types of CT scans and provides precise insights into lung health.

Download CT LVAS patient information sheet here.

How do I prepare for the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

On the day of your appointment, please bring your scan request form or referral letter from your doctor. It is helpful to wear loose fitting clothing without metal buttons, buckles, fasteners or zippers, as metal objects interfere with the scan. A gown or sheet is provided if clothing needs to be removed. Please inform the radiographer who is performing the scan if you are, or might be, pregnant.

What happens during the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

  1. You will be asked to lie down with your arms above your head, if it is comfortable to do so. 
  2. Once you are comfortable, you will be asked to take a deep breath and hold your breath while a CT scan will be taken of your chest. 
  3. You will be told to breathe normally until you have your breath back. 
  4. You will be asked to exhale as much as you can and then hold your breath. A second CT scan will be taken. 

After each CT scan has been taken, the radiographer will review the images. This can take several minutes. The radiographer will tell you when the procedure is finished.

The images will then be analysed in detail and the CT LVAS Ventilation Report sent to your referring doctor.

How long does the scan take? keyboard_arrow_down

Typically, the scan will take less than 15 minutes.

What are the benefits of the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

Scan images are used to produce the CT LVAS Ventilation Report to support your doctor’s decision-making in diagnosis, monitoring or treatment of your condition. The CT LVAS Ventilation Report provides detailed and localised information about your lungs’ function. This gives your doctors more information to better understand your lung health.

What are the risks of the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

There are potential risks with most medical tests. With CT scans, there are potential risks from exposure to radiation. The amount of radiation used during a CT scan is more than a standard x-ray and will vary for each person. However, your doctor will balance these potential risks against the benefits of the test. Also, the radiographer will ensure that you receive the least amount of radiation necessary during your scan. If you would like more information on the risks of radiation exposure, please ask the medical imaging staff or radiographer.

How do I get my results? keyboard_arrow_down

Your referring doctor will receive a CT LVAS Ventilation Report with the results of your scan. It is important that you discuss the results with your doctor so that they can explain what they mean for you.

Related procedures

Related procedures

How much will my procedure cost?

Fees for radiology procedures vary and depend on a number of factors, including the type of procedure, what has been requested on your referral and the Medicare rebates available. We will advise you of any fees associated with your examination at the time of making your appointment or when you arrive at the clinic. Alternatively you can contact us and one of our team will be happy to answer any queries regarding fees. For more information about fees and rebates please visit our account FAQs.