X-ray Velocimetry Lung Ventilation Analysis Software (XV LVAS)™ scan

XV LVAS scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of lung movement and function during breathing. This information is used with other information by doctors who diagnose, monitor and treat a variety of illnesses that affect the lungs.

X-ray Velocimetry Lung Ventilation Analysis Software (XV LVAS)™ scan

XV LVAS scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of lung movement and function during breathing. This information is used with other information by doctors who diagnose, monitor and treat a variety of illnesses that affect the lungs.

What is XV LVAS?

XV LVAS refers to ‘X-ray Velocimetry Lung Ventilation Analysis Software’. It is a new technology that uses an x-ray machine to take a series of x-rays of the chest.  The x-ray images are then converted into detailed, 4-dimensional images of your lungs (3D images in motion). These images are used by your doctor to understand how your lungs move and function when breathing.

Download XV LVAS patient information sheet here.

Why would my doctor refer me to have a XV LVAS scan? keyboard_arrow_down

The scan provides large amounts of quantitative information allowing physicians and patients to visualise and better understand how the lung is functioning.

What happens during a XV LVAS scan? keyboard_arrow_down

The radiographer will first explain the procedure and help prepare you for the scan.

You will be asked to lie down with your hands placed behind your head or on your hips while the scan is taken. Generally, x-rays will be taken at five positions over your chest. You should breathe normally during the scan. You do not need to breathe deeply or hold your breath.

After the set of x-ray images have been taken the radiographer will process the x-rays. This can sometimes take several minutes. Sometimes there will be a need for additional images to be taken.

The radiographer will then instruct you when the procedure is finished.

The scan results will not be immediately available. The images will need to be analysed and a report will be sent to your referring doctor.

How do I prepare for a XV LVAS scan? keyboard_arrow_down

No preparation is required for the scan.

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. 

Please inform the radiographer performing the scan if you are, or might be, pregnant.

How long does the scan take? keyboard_arrow_down

Typically, the scan will take less than 30 minutes.

What are the risks of the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

The scan delivers a very small dose of radiation. However, the radiation dose levels of the scan are considered minimal to very low risk. The radiation dose level from the scan is approximately equivalent to 3-7 weeks of natural radiation from the environment.

What are the benefits of the scan? keyboard_arrow_down

The images are used to produce the XV LVAS Ventilation Report to support the doctor’s decision-making in diagnosis, monitoring or treatment of your condition. The XV LVAS Ventilation Report provides qualitative and quantitative information about regional lung ventilation, allowing physicians and patients to visualise and better understand how the lung is functioning.

How do I get my results? keyboard_arrow_down

Your referring doctor will receive a written report with the results of your scan.

It is important that you discuss the results with your doctor so that they can explain what the results mean for you.

Where is this scan available? keyboard_arrow_down

An XV LVAS scan is available in the following I-MED Radiology clinics.

Victoria

Berwick (Casey)
Traralgon (Latrobe Regional Hospital)

New South Wales

Wagga Wagga (Hardy Ave)
Albury Wodonga Health - Albury Campus

Queensland

Brisbane (St Andrew's War Memorial Hospital)

Related procedures

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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.