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Chest CT Scan: The Role of Imaging in Preventing Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Diseases

Chest CT scans (or computed tomography) have become an essential diagnostic tool. Lung cancer, cardiovascular diseases, mediastinal disorders… chest imaging allows for the early identification of many potentially serious conditions. The combination of low-dose technologies and artificial intelligence makes it possible to detect abnormalities at the earliest stages of tissue change, well before the onset of clinical symptoms.

Health issues

Lung and cardiovascular diseases represent a major health challenge today, both globally and nationally. According to the latest data published by the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death worldwide, with approximately 17.9 million deaths each year, representing nearly 32% of all deaths recorded globally. Chronic lung diseases and lung cancer are also among the leading causes of death and illness, affecting millions of people each year and placing increasing pressure on healthcare systems worldwide.

Switzerland is not immune to this problem. According to recent statistics from the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH), cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in the country, with nearly 20,000 deaths annually, representing about a third of all recorded deaths. Furthermore, lung cancer is a particularly concerning issue: almost 4,500 new cases are diagnosed each year, making it one of the most common and deadliest cancers in Switzerland. The Swiss Lung Association also emphasizes that the majority of cases are diagnosed late, thus significantly reducing the chances of a cure.

Faced with these major challenges, the implementation of innovative, precise, and less invasive diagnostic tools has become a priority. Low-dose chest CT, thanks to its advanced medical imaging capabilities, is now positioned as an essential tool in the early detection of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases. Its regular and targeted use could significantly reduce medical complications related to these conditions, thus significantly improving the quality of life and prognosis of the patients concerned.

Why prescribe a chest CT scan?

A chest CT scan allows for the exploration of all pulmonary, vascular, and mediastinal structures with unparalleled precision. In Switzerland, its main indications are:

  • Early detection of lung cancer, particularly in smokers and ex-smokers, in accordance with the recommendations of the Swiss Lung League.
  • Monitoring of already identified pulmonary nodules, ensuring precise follow-up to detect any suspicious developments early.
  • The exploration of thoracic vascular pathologies such as pulmonary embolisms, aneurysms or aortic dissections, allowing for rapid and targeted intervention.
  • Mediastinal assessment, to clearly identify lymph nodes, masses or cysts that may require specific management.
  • The pre-operative cardio-thoracic assessment, essential before any major surgical intervention, to ensure patient safety.
  • Post-therapeutic follow-up of patients operated on or treated for thoracic pathologies, ensuring appropriate monitoring and prevention of complications or recurrences.

Low-dose chest CT scans are therefore a high-performance medical examination that allows for the early and accurate detection of several major chest pathologies. They are particularly effective for:

  • Lung cancer: Early detection of pulmonary nodules, even very small ones, promotes curative treatment before spread.
  • Pulmonary embolism: Rapid diagnosis of a life-threatening emergency caused by a blood clot, essential for immediate treatment.
  • Cardiovascular diseases: Accurate assessment of coronary calcium, an indicator of the risk of myocardial infarction and other coronary diseases, enabling effective prevention.
  • Chronic lung diseases (COPD, emphysema): Precise visualization of lung lesions to adapt medical monitoring and optimize treatments.
These conditions require special attention given their severity and potential impact on patients' quality of life. Low-dose chest CT scans represent a major advancement for optimizing their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

The advantages of low-dose scanning

Long limited by concerns about radiation, chest CT scans have evolved considerably with the advent of high-performance, low-dose technologies. Today, these technical advances drastically reduce radiation exposure while maintaining exceptional image quality, essential for accurate diagnosis
  • Low radiation exposure, less than 1 mSv for screening examinations, which is well below the levels observed with conventional scanners, thus minimizing the risks associated with repeated irradiation.
  • Optimized image quality thanks to modern iterative reconstruction methods, allowing for improved sharpness and precision of the resulting images while limiting exposure.
  • The examination is quick, painless, and non-invasive, significantly improving patient comfort during the procedure. The short duration of the examination also promotes better patient acceptance, which is particularly important for routine screening.

These benefits make low-dose chest CT a tool of choice not only for the early detection of serious pathologies but also for optimal regular monitoring of at-risk or already diagnosed patients.

The contribution of artificial intelligence: towards augmented analysis

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of medical imaging, particularly thoracic imaging. At the Lausanne Imaging and Diagnostic Center (CID), AI is now an integral part of the diagnostic process, transforming how examinations are analyzed and interpreted
  • Automated image sorting and pre-analysis: AI immediately and accurately detects pulmonary nodules, including very small ones, significantly increasing the chances of early detection.
  • Precise quantification of lesions: AI accurately measures the size, volume and evolution of lesions over successive examinations, thus facilitating rigorous and personalized medical monitoring.
  • Assistance to radiologists to prioritize high-risk cases: AI systems provide radiologists with clear and precise information on potentially serious abnormalities, enabling rapid and targeted management.

By integrating AI into the diagnostic process, the accuracy, sensitivity, and safety of thoracic diagnoses are significantly enhanced. Radiologists retain a central role, overseeing and validating all analyses, but are now assisted by cutting-edge technological tools that improve the overall diagnostic quality and enable even more effective patient care.

How does the exam work?

The chest CT scan is designed to be simple, quick, and comfortable for the patient. Its procedure is optimized to minimize stress and logistical constraints:

  • No special preparation is necessary : ​​The patient can eat, drink and take their usual medications before the examination, unless specifically instructed otherwise.
  • Short average duration: Image acquisition usually lasts between 5 and 10 minutes, allowing for rapid treatment, even on an outpatient basis.
  • Contrast agent injection only if necessary: ​​In most low-dose screening tests, no injection is required. In cases of suspected pulmonary embolism or complex vascular investigation, an iodinated contrast agent may be administered.
  • Maximum comfort: The examination is painless and non-invasive. The patient lies comfortably on the examination table and simply follows the technician's breathing instructions.
  • Rapid transmission of results: The images are immediately analyzed by the specialist radiologists at CID Lausanne. A detailed report is quickly sent to the referring family doctor or specialist, thus ensuring rapid and coordinated clinical care.

A concrete clinical example

At the Lausanne Imaging and Diagnostic Centre, the patient journey has been designed to adapt to each clinical profile, ensuring personalized and effective care.

Let's take the example of Mrs. S., 62 years old, a former smoker (35 pack-years) , asymptomatic but anxious about her risk of lung cancer. Based on the recommendations of the Swiss Lung Association, her family doctor prescribes a low-dose chest CT scan. The appointment is scheduled within a few days. After a warm welcome at the Cancer Information Center (CID), the scan is performed in less than 10 minutes. Artificial intelligence identifies a 5 mm nodule, which is stable at the follow-up 6 months later. Structured monitoring is initiated, thus avoiding unnecessary anxiety-inducing surveillance while ensuring optimal vigilance.

Another case involves Mr. D., 48 years old, active, a non-smoker, who presented to the emergency room with sudden chest pain . His doctor suspected a pulmonary embolism. A contrast-enhanced chest CT scan was immediately performed at the CID. Thanks to AI-assisted automated analysis, the diagnosis of pulmonary embolism was confirmed, and the patient was referred to specialized hospital care without delay.

Finally, Mrs. L., 70 years old, with a history of cardiac surgery , underwent a pre-operative CT scan before a new scheduled procedure. The imaging revealed extensive coronary calcification, allowing for a safe adaptation of the anesthetic and surgical strategy.

Each patient thus benefits from cutting-edge diagnostic expertise, combining state-of-the-art technology, artificial intelligence and rigorous human validation by radiologists at CID Lausanne.

Accurate epidemiological data (in Switzerland and worldwide)

According to recent data from the GLOBOCAN 2020 global registry, lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death worldwide, with 2.2 million new cases diagnosed each year and 1.8 million deaths. In Europe, statistics from the European Cancer Information System (ECIS) confirm this alarming trend, with a persistently high incidence, particularly among the elderly and smokers.

In Switzerland, the figures are just as worrying. According to the Federal Statistical Office (FSO), approximately 4,500 new cases of lung cancer are diagnosed each year, representing one of the leading causes of cancer death in both men and women. The 5-year survival rate unfortunately remains low, at around 20%, due to often late diagnosis.

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of death in Switzerland. The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) reports nearly 20,000 deaths annually attributed to heart and vascular conditions. Coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial infarctions account for a significant proportion of these. Furthermore, the prevalence of pulmonary embolism in Switzerland is estimated at between 60 and 70 cases per 100,000 inhabitants each year.

These data confirm the crucial importance of early detection: by identifying lesions at an initial stage, low-dose chest CT directly contributes to improving the prognosis of many

Leading scientific studies: international validation of low-dose chest CT

Several large international studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of low-dose chest CT screening in preventing lung cancer and reducing mortality:
  • NLST (National Lung Screening Trial, USA, 2011) : This landmark study of over 53,000 high-risk participants showed a 20% reduction in lung cancer mortality and a 7% reduction in overall mortality with low-dose CT screening compared to chest X-ray.
  • NELSON (Dutch-Belgian Randomized Lung Cancer Screening Trial, Europe, 2020): Involving more than 15,000 participants, this European study confirmed a 24-26% reduction in lung cancer mortality in men and up to 39-61% in women screened by low-dose CT scan.
  • USPSTF (US Preventive Services Task Force, 2021) : Based on the results of large studies, this institution recommends annual screening with low-dose chest CT scans for adults aged 50 to 80 years with a significant smoking history.
  • ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology, 2023) : ESMO now includes in its recommendations the use of low-dose chest CT for the early detection of lung cancer in at-risk populations, confirming the major impact of the results from NLST and NELSON.

All of this robust and consistent scientific data fully justifies the progressive implementation of targeted screening programs, even in Switzerland, in line with the recommendations of the Swiss Lung League and the federal health authorities.

Prospects for innovation and the future

Thoracic imaging is undergoing rapid technological evolution, opening up major innovation opportunities for the years to come. The next advances will notably concern:
  • The continuous improvement of artificial intelligence algorithms, capable not only of detecting, but of predictively interpreting the evolving behavior of pulmonary nodules or coronary calcifications.
  • The development of personalized screening, integrating genetic factors, blood biomarkers and the individual risk profile of the patient, makes it possible to target the populations to be monitored even more precisely.
  • Further reduction of radiation doses, with ultra-low dose imaging techniques or photon-counting, offering ever higher image quality with minimal exposure.
  • The integration of centralized longitudinal monitoring platforms, allowing medical teams to track the progress of each patient over several years via secure and interoperable databases, thus strengthening the continuum of care.
  • Advanced automation of radiological workflows, streamlining interpretation times and facilitating multidisciplinary coordination between radiologists, pulmonologists, oncologists and cardiologists.

These innovations will offer Swiss patients increasingly reliable, rapid, and personalized diagnostic tools. The Lausanne CID is fully committed to this dynamic, continuously equipping itself with the latest technologies and participating in research and innovation networks in advanced thoracic imaging.

The differentiating strengths of CID Lausanne

The Lausanne Imaging and Diagnostic Centre offers unique expertise in French-speaking Switzerland in preventive and diagnostic thoracic imaging:

  • Cutting-edge technology : latest generation low-dose scanners and advanced artificial intelligence systems integrated into daily life.
  • Fast and flexible access : optimized appointment times, urgent care possible in vital indications.
  • Specialized multidisciplinary team : FMH radiologists experienced in thoracic imaging, working closely with pulmonologists, cardiologists and thoracic surgeons in the region.
  • Personalized patient journey : human welcome, individualized follow-up, active coordination with treating physicians.
  • Certified Swiss quality : strict adherence to radiation protection standards, LaMal compliance, alignment with the recommendations of the Swiss Lung League and the FOPH.
  • Constant commitment to innovation : participation in research projects, continuous training of teams and ongoing investment in new intelligent imaging solutions.

This combination of human expertise, state-of-the-art technologies and a commitment to quality positions CID Lausanne as a leading player in French-speaking Switzerland in the prevention and diagnosis of pulmonary and cardiovascular diseases.

Chest CT scans, combined with low-dose technologies and artificial intelligence, now offer a precise and safe approach in Switzerland. At CID Lausanne, this technical expertise is combined with a human and personalized approach to each patient.

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FAQ

Is a chest scan painful?
No, it's a painless and quick examination
What is the radiation dose?
Less than 1 mSv for low-dose screening scans.
Is a medical prescription required in Switzerland?
Yes, the chest scan is performed on the prescription of the family doctor or specialist.
Is it covered by Swiss health insurance?
Yes, according to recognized medical indications, it is covered by basic health insurance (LaMal).
What are the risks associated with low-dose CT scans?
Radiation exposure is extremely low (often less than 1 mSv) and poses no significant risk. The examination is non-invasive, painless, and requires no specific preparation.
Who needs a low-dose chest CT scan?
Primarily smokers or ex-smokers aged 50 to 80, patients being monitored for pulmonary nodules, those with a high cardiovascular risk or acute thoracic symptoms (pain, dyspnea).
How long does it take to get the results?
The results are usually sent to the prescribing physician within 24 to 48 hours of the examination at CID Lausanne.
Is artificial intelligence replacing the radiologist?
No, AI assists the radiologist to increase accuracy, early detection and accelerate analysis, but the final decision is still validated by an FMH specialist in thoracic radiology.
Does the examination require an injection?
Not for simple screening. An injection of contrast agent is only considered in the case of more complex vascular investigations (pulmonary embolism, aortic pathologies, etc.).

How many diseases could we avoid if we looked just a little earlier?

Make an appointment or learn more about our equipment