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Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan

Mismatched air and blood flow suggesting pulmonary embolism.

General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.

What it shows

Mismatched air and blood flow suggesting pulmonary embolism.

Why it is done

Suspected PE when CT contrast is unsuitable (for example in pregnancy).

Preparation

A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.

Radiation & safety

Typical effective dose 1 to 2 mSv, similar to about 4 to 8 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

How long it takes

about 1 hour. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.

Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.

Related conditions

entry-health-condition-pe

Where to get this near you

🏥 Care near you

Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.

Common questions

Why is Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan done?
Suspected PE when CT contrast is unsuitable (for example in pregnancy).

How do I prepare for Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan?
A small radioactive tracer is injected or swallowed. Preparation depends on the test; tell staff if pregnant or breastfeeding, as feeding may need a pause.

Is Ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 1 to 2 mSv, similar to about 4 to 8 months of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.

SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.

Sources: SI health summary (own words); decoder imaging pack; RadiologyInfo.org and MedlinePlus as references only

Emergency — call📞 102