Pulmonary Diagnostics
Christian Hospital’s Center for Advanced Pulmonary Medicine provides its patients with advanced technologies for earlier detection of lung disease and lung cancer.
Low-Radiation-Dose CT (LDCT) Screening
Christian Hospital utilizes low-radiation-dose CT (LDCT) imaging technology helping to provide an earlier diagnosis of lung cancer, making treatment both easier and more effective. In a reported study, LDCT lung cancer screening has been shown to reduce lung cancer deaths by 20-33% in high-risk populations. It is estimated that following government screening guidelines could save an additional 10,000 to 20,000 lives each year.
Not everyone should be screened for lung cancer. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recommend lung cancer screening if you meet the following criteria:
- You are between 50 and 77 years old
- Have a smoking history of at least “20 pack-years”
- Examples:
- Smoked a pack of cigarettes a day for 20 years
- Smoked 2 packs a day for 10 years
- You are a current Smoker, or have quit within the last 15 years
Next Steps if you meet the criteria above:
- You will need to talk with your doctor to decide if screening is right for you
- A doctor’s order is required to be scheduled for screening
To schedule a lung cancer screening at Christian Hospital, speak with your primary care provider, call 314.653.4050 or request an appointment. To schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist, call 314.747.9355.
Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) and Electromagnetic Navigation
Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) and electromagnetic navigation are used to better diagnose damaged or diseased tissue found in hard-to-reach parts of the chest. EBUS is particularly helpful to biopsy tumors while electromagnetic navigation allows doctors to remove samples of lung tissue that were previously too small to collect. These outpatient procedures are typically performed after a CT or PET scan has identified an area of concern.
Prior to these medical advancements, surgery was required to biopsy lesions or tumors found in areas such as the lungs, heart, esophagus and lymph nodes – which generally required hospitalization, general anesthetics and a longer recovery period.
Christian Hospital and Northwest HealthCare provide world-class medical care to families in North St. Louis County, St. Louis and Southwestern Illinois.