Chest & thoracic imaging

Expert chest X-ray reporting, CT chest, lung nodule surveillance and oncological thoracic imaging — all reported by named Consultant Radiologists.

Specialist thoracic imaging in Bristol

The chest is one of the most frequently imaged areas in radiology. Whether investigating an abnormality detected incidentally, monitoring a known lung condition, or staging a malignancy, high-quality imaging and expert reporting are essential. Our Consultant Radiologists provide detailed, structured reports on a full range of thoracic investigations — from plain chest radiography to complex CT assessment of the lungs, pleura and mediastinum.

Services

Thoracic imaging we provide

Chest X-ray reporting

Formal reporting of plain chest radiographs by a Consultant Radiologist. All reports are structured, clinically contextualised and delivered promptly — providing clear findings and recommendations for the referring clinician.

CT chest

High-resolution CT imaging of the thorax for comprehensive assessment of the lungs, airways, pleura and mediastinum. Performed at Spire Bristol or Nuffield Health Bristol and reported by an experienced Consultant Radiologist.

Lung nodule assessment

Characterisation and surveillance of pulmonary nodules detected incidentally or on screening. Reports follow current British Thoracic Society (BTS) guidelines, with clear recommendations on further imaging intervals or onward referral.

CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA)

CT angiography of the pulmonary arteries for suspected pulmonary embolism — the definitive imaging test for this potentially life-threatening condition. Fast, accurate and available with short waiting times at both hospital sites.

Oncological thoracic staging

CT of the chest for staging of lung cancer and other thoracic malignancies, assessment of response to treatment, and surveillance following surgery or systemic therapy. Reports are structured to meet multidisciplinary team (MDT) requirements.

Conditions

What we help investigate

Pulmonary nodules

Incidental or screen-detected pulmonary nodules require careful characterisation and, where appropriate, follow-up CT at defined intervals. We provide BTS-compliant reports with clear management recommendations, reducing uncertainty for both patients and clinicians.

Pleural disease

CT assessment of pleural effusions, pleural thickening and pleural masses — including differentiation of benign from malignant pleural disease. Ultrasound-guided pleural procedures may be arranged at the hospital sites where appropriate.

Mediastinal masses

CT characterisation of mediastinal abnormalities including lymphadenopathy, thymic lesions, teratomas and vascular structures. Detailed reporting to guide further investigation or biopsy planning.

Pulmonary embolism

CTPA for suspected pulmonary embolism, with assessment of clot burden, right heart strain and incidental thoracic findings. Rapid reporting ensures clinicians have the information they need without delay.

Book a chest or thoracic imaging appointment

Fast access to expert CT chest and X-ray reporting in Bristol, with results typically available within 24–48 hours.