CT Orbit

A CT ORBIT (computed tomography of the eye orbits) is a painless, 10-minute imaging study that creates high-resolution, 3-D pictures of the eyes, eye muscles, optic nerves, and surrounding bone. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we use the latest 128-slice CT scanner to deliver sharp images with the lowest possible radiation dose, helping doctors spot problems early and plan treatment with confidence.

• Definition: Specialised CT scan focused on the eye sockets (orbits).
• Technology: X-ray beams rotate 360° around the head; a computer reconstructs cross-sectional slices.
• Output: Detailed axial, coronal, and sagittal views that reveal soft tissue, bone, and blood vessels in under 10 minutes.

1. Non-Contrast CT Orbits – quick screening for fractures or foreign bodies
2. Contrast-Enhanced CT Orbits – iodine-based dye highlights blood vessels and tumours
3. CT Orbit Angiography – 3-D vessel mapping before surgery or embolisation

• Orbital wall thickness & integrity
• Extra-ocular muscle size & symmetry
• Optic nerve diameter & enhancement pattern
• Globe position (proptosis index)
• Presence of calcification, haemorrhage, or foreign body

• Rule out orbital cellulitis or abscess
• Detect intra-ocular or orbital tumours (retinoblastoma, haemangioma)
• Assess thyroid eye disease activity
• Locate metallic or glass foreign bodies after accidents
• Measure orbital volume before reconstructive surgery

Common Scenarios

• Trauma after an eye injury or facial fracture
• Persistent double vision or bulging eyes
• Suspected orbital infection, tumour, or thyroid eye disease
• Pre-surgical planning for cataract, squint, or orbital decompression
• Evaluation of unexplained vision loss or optic nerve swelling

• Speed: Scan completed in 5–10 minutes
• Accuracy: Sub-millimetre resolution detects 0.5 mm lesions
• Comfort: Open gantry; no loud noises
• Guidance: Images uploaded instantly to Cadabams secure cloud for same-day radiologist reporting

• Orbital fractures (blow-out, tripod)
• Graves’ ophthalmopathy
• Optic neuritis
• Cavernous haemangioma
• Retinoblastoma (paediatric)
• Orbital cellulitis or mucormycosis
• Foreign body granuloma

• Fasting: Not required for non-contrast scan; 4-hour fast for contrast study
• Clothing: Wear metal-free attire or change into gown
• Medications: Continue regular medicines unless told otherwise
• Jewellery: Remove earrings, glasses, and piercings near the face

• Doctor’s prescription or online request via Cadabams portal
• Recent kidney function test (for contrast studies)
• Pregnancy test if applicable (CT avoided unless emergency)

• Acute trauma: Within 24 hours of injury
• Thyroid eye disease: At diagnosis and every 6–12 months for monitoring
• Pre-surgery: 1–2 weeks before planned operation

• Adults & Children: Safe for all ages; paediatric parameters reduce dose
• Weight limit: Up to 200 kg (scanner table capacity)
• Pregnancy: Deferred unless life-threatening emergency; shielding used if unavoidable

1. Check-in & Consent (5 min)
2. Screening Questionnaire (allergies, kidney health)
3. Positioning – lie on your back, head on cushioned holder
4. Scan – table slides into gantry; keep still for 2–3 minutes
5. Contrast injection (if ordered) – quick IV push via auto-injector
6. Observation – 15-minute post-contrast monitoring for rare reactions

• Inform staff of asthma, heart disease, or previous severe allergies
• Remove hearing aids, removable dental work
• Avoid caffeine if prone to claustrophobia; meditation apps available in waiting lounge