What is a VQ scan used for?

A V/Q scan uses a small amount of a radioactive substance called a tracer that helps look for disease in the body. The scans help diagnose different lung conditions, including a pulmonary embolism (PE). A PE is a life-threatening blockage in an artery in the lungs.

What is the difference between a CT scan and a VQ scan?

CT is faster and produces sharper images, which many believe make the results easier to interpret. Also, at most hospitals, a CT scanner is available 24/7, while nuclear medicine technicians needed to perform a V/Q study may not be on call, especially on nights and weekends.

How is VQ scan performed?

A VQ scan is carried out in two parts. In the first part, radioactive material is breathed in and pictures or images are taken to look at the airflow in the lungs. In the second part, a different radioactive material is injected into a vein in the arm, and more images taken to see the blood flow in the lungs.

What is a VQ scan and pregnancy?

A ventilation/perfusion (V/Q) scan uses small amounts of radioactive substances to see if you have a blood clot in the lungs. Blood clots in the lungs can be a very serious, life-threatening condition. The amount of radioactive substance used in the study is reduced during pregnancy compared with a routine V/Q scan.

Does VQ scan affect kidneys?

The VQ scan uses a different medication through the IV that is not IV dye and has not been linked to kidney problems. The purpose of this study is to learn if using the test that does not use IV dye (the “VQ scan”) instead of a CT scan in some patients can help to prevent kidney problems.

Can a VQ scan detect lung disease?

How Does a VQ Scan Work? This scan is mostly used to help doctors diagnose a blood clot in your lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolism. Your doctor also may request this test to check out your lungs before a certain surgery.

Can VQ scan cause miscarriage?

In addition, based on low-calculated fetal radiation dose exposure,8 VQ scanning is thought to be safe for the fetus and should be performed in pregnant women with suspected PE.

What causes blood clots during pregnancy?

Hormonal changes in pregnancy, as well as increased pressure on the veins restricting blood flow, can cause blood clots. A blood clot in the lung, also known as a pulmonary embolism, is a leading cause of maternal death for pregnant women in the U.S., according to the UNC Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center.