CT PAROTID

Parotid CT scan refers to a CT scan parotid of the face that captures images of the parotid glands which are situated in front of and below the ears on either side of the face. Salivary glands are in these parotid glands. These glands aid in the secretion of saliva which helps in dissolving the food for easy digestion. 

What is a CT Parotid Scan?  

The CT scan is done using a combination of X-ray and computer machinery to individually scan the parotid glands and the surrounding area. It is required in the diagnosis of the tumours, abscesses and stones of parotid glands which are non-invasive in nature. The test is performed using the CT Scanner which is a large doughnut shaped machine that has a bed which can move in and out of its centre. The patient is required to lie on the bed and the images are scanned from all the angles around the patient. 

Types of CT Parotid Scans 

The two categories of CT Parotid scans are as follows:  

• Non-contrast CT scan: This type does not use any form of contrast dye and utilizes an x-ray alone to take pictures of the parotid glands and the nearby tissues.  
• Contrast-enhanced CT scan: This type uses contrast dye to enhance the pictures taken of the parotid glands and other nearby tissues. 

The following parameters will be monitored by the radiologist during the scan:  

• Any visible abnormality that could be a tumour, abscess, stone, etc.  
• Size and shape of the parotid glands.  
• The location and size of all visible abnormalities.  
• Any surrounding tissues and structures (blood vessels, nerves) must be accounted for and their condition bespoken. 

Common reasons a CT Parotid scan is ordered includes:  

• To diagnose and follow up with determining issues concerned around the parotid glands.  
• To check potential symptoms like facial pain, swelling, or difficulty of swallowing.  
• To follow through a condition that is currently known, specifically, observing how it evolves or shifts.  
• To moderate and manage treatment with surgery/radiotherapy. 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Parotid Scan?  

A doctor may prescribe a CT Parotid scan in the following cases:  

• For cases involving facial swelling, jaw pain, and tenderness,  
• People who have trouble with mouth opening or swallowing,  
• To rule out suspicious cases of abscess or tumour in the parotid gland,  
• To confirm the presence of a blockage or stone in the parotid gland,  
• Patients with specific disorders of salivary glands need routine surveillance. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

CT Parotid scan come with their own set of benefits as well which includes;  

• Accurately capturing the detailed structure of the parotid glands and the tissue around them, 
• Diagnosis and monitoring accuracy. 
• Done with little invasion to the body, 
• No pain or any other discomfort is felt during the CT scan process. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Parotid Scan

Regular illnesses detected through a CT Parotid scan include:  

• Warthin’s tumour or other benign tumours 
• Adenocarcinoma or other malignant tumours 
• Abscesses and infections 
• Blockages and stones in the parotid gland 
• Sjogren's Syndrome and other disorders of the salivary glands. 

Before a CT Parotid scan, one should keep in mind:  

• All metal items such as jewellery, glasses, dentures should be removed before the procedure begins. 
• All clothing with tight fasteners such as zips should be avoided, and loose clothes should be worn. 
• Stop eating and drinking for a few hours leading up to the scan. 
• Meet with the doctor a few days leading up before the scan to explain any medical conditions or allergies. 

Pre-requisites  

People who have kidney disease likely will need to have their kidney's function checked by a blood test and those with known allergies may need to be medicated to reduce the likelihood of having an allergic reaction during the scan. 

Best Time to Take the CT Parotid Scan 

Any time of day is suitable for taking the scan; however, it is most effective when scheduling around a time in which you feel at ease. 

Eligibility 

Everyone can receive a CT Parotid scan, although it is primarily recommended for candidates who: 

• Have symptoms associated with the parotid glands, 
• Have a past medical history of the parotid gland, 
• Are planning surgical procedures or treatments associated with the parotid gland. 

Procedure for Taking a CT Parotid Scan  

• Make sure that you are lying comfortably on the CT scanner bed,  
• The radiographer will make sure to best position you to guarantee maximum image quality,  
• Refrain from moving or doing anything else until the scan is complete,  
• You will be surrounded by the scanner on all sides while it moves progressively to capture distinct images,  
• The total duration of the scan is around 15-30 minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test  

• Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, for example, if you have kidney disease or any known allergies,  
• Tell him or her about any illnesses or infections you may have had very recently,  
• Make sure to remain still, as any sudden movements can disrupt the scan's effectiveness.