CT SCAN OF ORBIT

CT scan of orbit is an innovative technique that is carried out with the aid of a computer and x-ray equipment. This unique test produces fine cross sectional scan images of the orbits and adjacent tissues. This test is used for diagnosing and follow up of a variety of conditions involving orbits, eyes and other associated structures. 

What is a CT scan of Orbit? 

An orbit CT scan utilizes the X-ray technology with the computer technology to visualize the orbits and the adjoining structures. The technique is performed by placing a patient on a couch that moves inside a large machine which is shaped like a toroidal. The X-ray radiation originates from a machine and penetrates the body, the information is processed and analysed with the help of a computer to give clear images of the orbits and surrounding structures. 

Types of CT scan of Orbit 

Some of the types of CT scans used in assessing the orbit includes the following: 

• Non-contrast CT scan: This examination captures “soft tissue” images of the orbits and adjacent structures using only X-rays. 
• Contrast-enhanced CT scan: This procedure used a contrast material to delineate certain structures or pathology in the Orbits. 
• High-resolution CT scan: This type of CT scan provides detailed images of orbits and surrounding tissues with high detail is usually used for evaluating small structures or abnormalities. 

A CT scan of the orbit is performed for various medical reasons. Some of these reasons are: 

• Structure and support of the orbit bones 
• Optical nerve along with the eyeball 
• Muscles and tendons around the eye 
• Fat and connective tissue in the orbit area 
• Tumours, cysts, or any foreign body that might cause issues 

A CT scan of an orbit is done in the following scenarios: 

• To determine if there are any fractures or trauma in the orbit region 
• To identify cysts or tumours in the orbit area 
• To identify any inflammation or infection in the orbit area 
• In monitoring certain diseases of the orbits, like ophthalmopathy, which is caused by Graves’ disease 
• For planning surgery or other treatment modalities 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT scan of Orbit? 

Patients suffering from these conditions are probable candidates for an orbit CT scan: 

• Heavy eye trauma 
• Protruding eyes (Exophthalmos) 
• Eyelid inflammation (redness or swollen eyelids) 
• Vision impairment (including loss) 
• Possible infection or inflammation of the orbit 
• Tumours or cysts located in the orbit 
• Orbit abnormalities or malformation 

Tests like these are usually reserved for people suspected of having some type of an orbital issue. Such patients would include ophthalmologists, neuro ophthalmologists, or even neurosurgeons. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some of the main benefits of having a CT scan of an orbit are: 

• Captures very distinctive and clear pictures of all the orbit tissues and the tissues around it 
• Saves time and simple, no cuts involved 
• Assists in the detection and tracking of several orbital issues 
• Aids in surgery and any other major intervention 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT scan of Orbit

Some of the known factors that can be diagnosed with an orbit CT scan are: 

• Fractures of the orbit 
• Tumours or cysts in the orbit area 
• Ophthalmopathy predominate by Graves' disease 
• Orbital cellulitis with or without abscess 
• Neuritis or optic neuropathy

Patients must: 

• Take off any metallic items like rings, glasses, and earrings 
• Put on either a loose-fitting gown or your street clothes 
• Do not eat or drink anything for a few hours prior to the test 
• Relate your allergies or any aspect of your medical history that is relevant to the technician 

Pre-requisites 

No primary requirements are needed in a CT scan of the orbit. However, upon setting out for the test, patients are advised to:

• Pick a time when you can wait without moving and follow instructions. 
• Do not apply any makeup or wear hairpins that could make the test harder. 

Best Time to Take the CT scan of Orbit 

You can perform the test anytime; however, it is generally preferred when the patient is in a good condition and is willing to remain still. 

Eligibility 

Patients with any orbital pathology are the ones that are most likely to be advised for a CT scan of the orbit. The only problem can be for women that are expecting as well as some other patients that may need to be evaluated carefully in terms of risks versus benefits to the pregnant women getting the CT scan. 

Procedure for Taking a CT scan of Orbit 

Most examinations are completed within 15 to 30 minutes. The stages include the following: 

1. Preparation: The patient removes any rings or necklaces, changes into a hospital gown, and makes sure that there are no metal objects on the body. 

2. Positioning: The patient is placed on the CT scanner table, which is oriented in a way that allows the best possible imaging. 

3. Scanning: The CT Scanner captures the X-ray images of the eye's sockets and the surrounding area. 

4. Contrast material (if necessary) If need be, the patient can be injected with a contrast material to better the imaging. 

5. Image reconstruction the orbits and surrounding tissues is the area of the X-rays which the computer process then reconstructs into images. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients of the facility must: 

• Report any allergies and existing medical conditions to the technician. 
• Refrain from wearing any metallic items that are likely to cause interference with the examination. 
• Sit quietly and abide by rules set during the test.