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A VQ (Ventilation-Perfusion) scan assesses lung function by measuring airflow and blood flow in the lungs. It helps diagnose conditions like pulmonary embolism or other lung disorders. This non-invasive test involves inhaling a small amount of radioactive material and is safe with minimal risks. Costs vary by location, and the results help doctors evaluate lung health and guide treatment plans.
What is a V/Q scan?
Two imaging tests are combined into a V/Q scan to search for specific lung issues. Tests include:
- A ventilation scan that counts the amount of air entering and leaving your lungs.
- A perfusion scan that measures the blood flow (how blood flows in the lungs)
You can do the two scans independently or simultaneously.
A tracer, a tiny quantity of which is used in a V/Q scan, is used to look for illness in the body. The scans aid in diagnosing a pulmonary embolism, among other lung problems (PE). A PE is a potentially fatal obstruction in a lung artery. It often occurs when a blood clot that is lodged in another body organ escapes and moves to the lungs.
Other names: Other names of this test are ventilation/perfusion scan, pulmonary ventilation/perfusion scan, lung scan, lung V/Q scan
What is the use of V/Q scan?
The most frequent purpose of a V/Q scan is to look for pulmonary emboli (PE). It can also be used to:
- Find lungs' blood flow issues
- Check lung health prior to lung surgery
- Diagnose people with certain lung conditions, such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), a condition that causes coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
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Get Second OpinionWhat is the need of a V/Q scan?
If you experience pulmonary embolism symptoms, you could require a V/Q scan (PE). These consist of:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Coughing up blood
- Rapid heartbeat
Many people with PE don't have symptoms. But doctor may order a V/Q scan based on a physical exam and if you have certain risk factors such as:
- Long periods of inactivity or prolonged sitting (such as from long car trips or flights), bed rest.
- Family history of blood clots or PE
- Recent surgery
- Older age
- Obesity
- Smoking
One might also be at higher risk if you have:
- A clotting disorder
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Another lung disease, such as COPD
What happens during a V/Q scan?
V/Q scans are often carried out at a radiology office or a medical facility. A ventilation scan, a perfusion scan, or both scans might be performed on you. If you're receiving both, the scans will be performed back-to-back.
For both scan types:
- On a special table, you will remain perfectly motionless while the scanner collects images of your lungs.
- You will be given a material known as a radioactive tracer before to the scan. Gamma rays, a kind of energy, are released by the tracer. The scanner gathers the rays to produce pictures of your lungs.
A ventilation scan:
- You will wear a face mask and inhale a gas containing the radioactive tracer.
- While you are holding your breath, a healthcare expert will use a scanner to capture photographs of your lungs.
- While you breathe in the tracer gas for a few more minutes, your provider will continue to take images.
- Your face mask will be removed after the tracer gas has gathered in your lungs. The tracer will exit your lungs when you breathe normally.
A perfusion scan:
- Through an intravenous (IV) line, a medical professional will inject the radioactive tracer into your vein.
- The tracer will build up in the lungs' blood arteries.
- The scanner will be used by your doctor to obtain images of your lungs.
- Throughout the examination, you will be moved around so that the scanner may take pictures of your lungs from various perspectives.
Will there be anything I need to do to get ready for the test?
Generally, a V/Q scan comes after a chest x-ray. Doctor will inform about all preparation you need.
Is there any risk associated with the test?
- In a V/Q scan, there is hardly any radiation exposure. The radioactive material is used sparingly, and all of the radiation quickly exits the body.
- While a V/Q scan's radiation dose is generally safe for humans, it can be dangerous for an unborn child. So make sure to inform your healthcare professional if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant. Additionally, let your healthcare professional know if you are nursing since the tracer may contaminate the milk.
- During a perfusion scan, you could feel slightly uncomfortable as the tracer is administered.
- Allergies to the tracer are uncommon and typically minor.
What do the findings imply?
If your ventilation and perfusion scan results are abnormal, you may have a pulmonary embolism (PE) and require immediate medical attention. The scans may also reveal that you have a different lung ailment. These are some examples:
- COPD
- Pneumonia
- Heart failure
Important information to know about a V/Q scan?
If you are diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE), your treatment may include medicines such as blood thinners, which help prevent clots from forming, or clot busters, which help dissolve clots quickly.
If the medicines don't work, or you have a very large clot, you may need a surgical procedure to prevent and remove the clots.
Why is the VQ Scan Done?
The VQ Scan is mainly used to diagnose or rule out a pulmonary embolism (PE), which is a blood clot in the lungs. It can also evaluate lung function in people with chronic lung disease or before lung surgery.
When is the VQ Scan Needed?
Doctors may recommend a VQ Scan if you:
- Show symptoms of a pulmonary embolism (e.g., sudden shortness of breath, chest pain)
- Have unexplained low oxygen levels
- Are scheduled for lung surgery
- Have known or suspected chronic lung conditions like COPD
Who Should Take the VQ Scan?
- Patients with symptoms of blood clots in the lungs
- Individuals with abnormal chest X-ray or CT results
- People with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Patients undergoing evaluation for lung transplant or surgery
How Should I Prepare for the VQ Scan?
- No fasting or special preparation is usually required
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Remove metal accessories or jewelry before the test
- Let the technician know if you have allergies, especially to contrast or radioactive material
What Type of Sample is Collected for the VQ Scan and How?
This test does not collect a sample from the body. Instead, it involves breathing in a small amount of radioactive gas and receiving an injection of a radioactive tracer into a vein.
Are There Other Ways to Collect the Sample for the VQ Scan?
Not applicable. However, if a VQ Scan cannot be done, a CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) may be used as an alternative imaging method.
How is the VQ Scan Performed?
- Ventilation phase: You inhale a harmless radioactive gas through a mask to show air movement in the lungs.
- Perfusion phase: A small radioactive tracer is injected into a vein to track blood flow in the lungs.
- A special gamma camera takes images of both phases to detect abnormalities.
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How Long Does the VQ Scan Take?
The test usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, including preparation and imaging time.
When Will I Get My VQ Scan Results?
You will usually receive your VQ Scan results within 24 to 48 hours, depending on the lab's processing time. Reports are sent directly to you via WhatsApp or as a printed copy. Once you have your results, our doctor will explain them and guide you on the next steps, if needed.
How Do I Understand My VQ Scan Results?
- Normal Result: Ventilation and perfusion are well matched, meaning air and blood flow are balanced.
- Abnormal Result: A mismatch between airflow and blood flow may indicate a pulmonary embolism or other lung conditions.
What Should I Do After Getting My VQ Scan Results?
- If abnormal, your doctor may suggest additional tests like a CT scan or start treatment for a pulmonary embolism.
- If results are normal, further testing may not be required.
Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of the VQ Scan?
The VQ Scan is generally safe. There's minimal exposure to radioactive material, which is quickly eliminated from the body. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur.
Is the VQ Scan Painful?
The scan is not painful. You may feel a slight pinch during the injection, and some may experience mild discomfort while inhaling the gas, but it's usually very well tolerated.
What are the Factors Affecting VQ Scan Cost?
- Hospital vs. diagnostic center rates
- Radiologist expertise and equipment used
- Use of advanced nuclear imaging technology
- City and location of the testing facility
How Much Does the VQ Scan Cost in India?
The average cost of a VQ Scan in India is around Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000. However, the price can change depending on the hospital and the city.
VQ Scan Test Price in Different Cities Across India
| City | Price |
| Hyderabad | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Karimnagar | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Nizamabad | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Warangal | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Vizag | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Srikakulam | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Kakinada | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Kurnool | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Nellore | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Vizianagaram | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Navi Mumbai | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Nashik | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Chh. Sambhajinagar | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Pune | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Sangamner | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
| Bangalore | Rs.3,000 to Rs.7,000 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
A VQ scan can help to diagnose a blood clot in the lungs.
Yes, a V/Q scan helps to diagnose different lung conditions, such as pulmonary embolism (PE).
The examination lasts between 30 and 45 minutes. The test consists of two parts: breathing and injection. For the breathing section, you will be asked to breathe in and out via a tube put in your mouth while your nose is clamped shut.
Yes, a VQ scan is the preferred test for distinguishing CTEPH from other forms of pulmonary hypertension (PH).
For the next 24 hours, avoid prolonged close contact with pregnant women and children. Children and pregnant women are not permitted to accompany you to the department. During this period, you should also avoid blood tests and dental checkups.
Yes, a chest x-ray is usually done before or after a ventilation and perfusion scan.
Symptoms of pulmonary hypertension are: Shortness of breath. Tiredness Dizzy Chest pain (angina) Heart palpitations Swelling in the legs, ankles, feet, or tummy (abdomen)
In general, no specific dietary preparation, such as fasting, is required before the scan. But you may be requested to get a chest X-ray 24 to 48 hours before your test.
The cost of a VQ scan in India is approximately Rs. 7000, however, it can vary due to place and hospital.
To get a V/Q scan in Hyderabad, visit Medicover Hospitals, it offers the best range of diagnostic tests.
