CT SCAN OF PNS AXIAL & CORONALS

A CT Scan of the PNS (Paranasal Sinuses) is a specialized, non-invasive imaging test that provides an exceptionally clear view of your sinus cavities. This diagnostic procedure is fundamental in understanding the cause of persistent sinus-related symptoms. Its primary purpose is to create detailed, cross-sectional images—like thin slices—of the air-filled sinus cavities and their surrounding bone structures. At Cadabams Diagnostics, we utilize this advanced technology to give your doctor the precise information needed for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan for conditions ranging from chronic sinusitis to structural abnormalities.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your sinus CT scan, explaining what the test is, why you might need one, and what the results can reveal about your health.

What is a CT Scan of the Paranasal Sinuses?

A Computed Tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your head with sophisticated computer processing to create detailed, cross-sectional images. Think of it as looking at a loaf of bread by examining each individual slice. This allows a radiologist to see your sinuses with incredible clarity, far surpassing what a standard X-ray can show.

The output from a CT Scan of PNS (Paranasal Sinuses) provides highly detailed views (known as axial and coronal planes) of your:

• Frontal sinuses (in the forehead)
• Ethmoid sinuses (between the eyes)
• Maxillary sinuses (in the cheekbones)
• Sphenoid sinuses (deep behind the nose)

This level of detail is crucial for identifying subtle problems within the complex anatomy of the sinuses. For more information on the core technology, you can learn about CT Scans on our main service page

Types of CT Scan of PNS

Without Contrast

This is the most common type used for the standard evaluation of chronic sinusitis and other inflammatory conditions. It provides excellent images of the sinus lining, bones, and drainage pathways without needing any injections.

With Contrast

This type may be ordered if your doctor suspects a tumor, abscess, or a complex infection. For this scan, a special iodine-based contrast agent is injected into a vein in your arm. This material travels through your bloodstream, highlighting blood vessels and specific types of tissue, making them stand out clearly on the scan.

When a radiologist analyzes your CT Scan of PNS (Paranasal Sinuses), they are looking for specific indicators of health and disease. These parameters help build a complete picture of your sinus health:

• Mucosal Thickening: Swelling or inflammation of the delicate lining (mucosa) inside the sinuses.
• Air-Fluid Levels: A clear line separating trapped fluid from air, often a sign of an acute blockage or infection.
• Ostiomeatal Complex (OMC) Blockage: Obstruction of the critical, narrow channels where the maxillary, frontal, and ethmoid sinuses drain. This is a very common cause of chronic sinusitis.
• Presence of Nasal Polyps or Tumors: Identifying abnormal growths within the nasal cavity or sinuses.
• Anatomical Variations: Noting structural differences you were born with, such as a deviated septum (crooked cartilage between nostrils) or a concha bullosa (an air-filled middle turbinate), which can contribute to sinus blockages.
• Bone Erosion or Fractures: Looking for any damage, thinning, or breaks in the bones that form the sinus walls, which could indicate a severe infection, trauma, or a tumor.

While there are many indications, the test is most frequently ordered to investigate specific, persistent symptoms and conditions. A CT Scan of PNS is crucial for:

• Diagnosing Chronic Sinusitis: This is the leading reason. If you suffer from long-term symptoms like persistent nasal congestion, facial headaches or pressure, loss of smell (anosmia), and thick post-nasal drip, a CT scan can confirm the diagnosis and reveal the underlying cause. For more information, visit our page on [Link to: Sinusitis Condition Page].
• Evaluating Nasal Polyps: The scan can clearly show the presence, size, and extent of nasal polyps, which are soft, noncancerous growths that can block sinus drainage.
• Planning for Sinus or Nasal Surgery: Surgeons rely on the detailed anatomical roadmap provided by a CT scan to navigate the complex sinus pathways safely and effectively during a procedure.
• Assessing Injuries to the Face and Sinuses: After an accident or injury, a CT scan provides a definitive look at any fractures or damage to the delicate facial skeleton.
• Investigating Suspected Fungal Sinusitis or Tumors: For more complex cases, the scan can help identify signs of fungal infections or suspicious masses that may require further investigation or a different treatment approach.

When and Who Needs to Take a CT Scan of the Sinuses?

Your doctor may recommend a sinus CT scan if you are experiencing persistent symptoms that have not improved with initial medical treatments. It is a key diagnostic tool in several situations:

• Chronic Sinusitis: For patients with sinusitis symptoms (facial pain, pressure, congestion, thick nasal discharge) lasting more than 12 weeks.
• Recurrent Acute Sinusitis: When an individual experiences four or more sinus infections within a year.
• Pre-Surgical Planning: It is essential before procedures like Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS) to provide the surgeon with a detailed anatomical map.
• Facial Trauma: To accurately assess for fractures of the facial bones, including those involving the sinus walls.
• Unexplained Symptoms: To investigate cases of persistent facial pain, pressure, headaches, or loss of smell when the cause is unclear.
• Suspected Complications: If there is concern that a sinus infection has spread or if a fungal infection or tumor is suspected.

Benefits of Taking the Test

Opting for a sinus CT scan at Cadabams Diagnostics offers several key advantages:

• Definitive Diagnosis: It provides clear, objective evidence to confirm or rule out sinus disease, ending the cycle of guesswork.
• Detailed Surgical Roadmap: Offers unparalleled anatomical detail for surgeons, increasing the safety and success rate of procedures.
• Guides Targeted Treatment: By identifying the exact location and nature of the problem (e.g., a blockage vs. general inflammation), it allows your doctor to prescribe the most effective medical therapy.
• Quick and Painless: The procedure itself is fast, non-invasive, and completely painless.
• Widely Available: It is a standard and readily accessible diagnostic tool.

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT scan of PNS

A CT Scan of the Paranasal Sinuses is instrumental in diagnosing a range of conditions, including:

• Chronic Rhinosinusitis (CRS): With or without nasal polyps.
• Acute Sinusitis: Typically in complicated cases or when infection spreads.
• Nasal Polyps: Confirming their presence and extent.
• Fungal Sinusitis: Including both non-invasive and invasive forms.
• Benign or Malignant Tumors: Of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.
• Facial Bone Fractures: Involving the nose, cheeks, and eye sockets.
• Deviated Septum and Other Anatomic Issues: That predispose a patient to sinus problems.

Preparation is straightforward:

• Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You may be asked to change into a medical gown.
• Metal Objects: You must remove glasses, jewelry, hearing aids, hairpins, and any removable dental work, as metal can interfere with the images.
• Contrast Instructions: If your doctor has ordered a scan with contrast, you will likely be instructed not to eat or drink anything for 2-4 hours before your appointment. Our staff will provide you with specific instructions when you schedule.

Pre-requisites

• A doctor's referral or prescription is typically required to undergo a CT Scan of PNS.
• If you have had previous imaging tests of your sinuses (like an X-ray or another CT scan), please bring the reports and images with you for comparison.

Best Time to Take the CT Scan of PNS

A sinus CT scan can be performed at any time. Appointments are scheduled based on your convenience and our center's availability. Medically, your doctor will often order the scan after a course of initial treatment (like antibiotics or steroids) has failed to resolve your symptoms, as this provides a clearer picture of the underlying chronic condition.

Eligibility

Most individuals are eligible for a CT scan of the sinuses. However, there are important contraindications:

• Pregnancy: CT scans are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary due to the radiation exposure. Please inform our staff if there is any chance you might be pregnant.
• Contrast Scan Contraindications: If you are scheduled for a scan with contrast, you must inform us if you have a known severe allergy to iodine-based contrast dye or if you have impaired kidney function.

CT PNS Scan Procedure

The entire process is designed to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Here is a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during your CT Scan of PNS (Paranasal Sinuses) at Cadabams Diagnostics.

• Step 1: Check-in and Preparation You will register at the front desk. A technologist will greet you, confirm your details, and explain the procedure. If needed, you may be asked to change into a gown. If your scan requires contrast, an IV line will be placed in your arm at this time.

• Step 2: Positioning You will be asked to lie down on the padded scanner table, usually flat on your back. Your head will be carefully positioned in a special head cradle. This helps you remain perfectly still, which is essential for getting clear, high-quality images.

• Step 3: Scanning The technologist will operate the scanner from an adjacent control room where they can see and speak to you throughout the scan. The table will slowly and smoothly move through the large, ring-like part of the scanner (the gantry). The machine will make quiet whirring and clicking sounds as it captures hundreds of images. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time. It is very important to stay still during this phase.

• Step 4: Completion The entire scanning process typically takes less than 10 minutes. Once the technologist has confirmed that all the necessary images have been captured and are of good quality, the scan is complete. The IV will be removed if one was used, and you will be free to change and leave. You can resume your normal activities immediately.

Caution Before Taking the Test

Your safety is our top priority. Before your scan, it is crucial that you share the following information with the technologist:

• Pregnancy: Always inform the technologist if you are, or think you might be, pregnant.
• Allergies: Let us know about any known allergies, especially to iodine or previous reactions to CT contrast dye.
• Medical Conditions: Inform us about any history of kidney disease, kidney failure, or diabetes.
• Medications: If you are taking medication for diabetes containing Metformin (e.g., Glucophage), you may need to temporarily stop taking it after a contrast-enhanced scan. Our team will provide specific guidance.