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Alternative names Return to top
Laminagraphy; Planigraphy; Stratigraphy; Tomogram - chestDefinition Return to top
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.How the test is performed Return to top
The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider’s office by an X-ray technician. You will likely 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 Return to top
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. You must wear a hospital gown. You must remove all jewelry.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel Return to top
There is generally no discomfort associated with tomography.Why the test is performed Return to top
Tomography is used to further examine a chest lesion when other tests are inconclusive.What abnormal results mean Return to top
The chest tomography may show lesions or tumors, help differentiate blood vessels from a small protuberance or swelling, and identify bronchial dilation or narrowing.What the risks are Return to top
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the X-ray.Special considerations Return to top
In modern hospitals and medical centers, plain film tomography has been superceded by computed tomography (CT).
Update Date: 5/2/2003 Updated by: Benjamin Taragin, M.D., Department of Radiology, Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center, New York, NY. Review Provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |