CT PNS

CT PNS or CT of the sinuses is one of the methods of a radiological examination of the sinuses that comprehensively evaluates pathologies of the paranasal sinuses using cross-sectional imaging. Shifts in the stative position in the CT scanner allows for a complete evaluation of the paranasal sinuses with images acquired from various directions. The CT PNS examination is non-invasive, which means surgery is not needed. This scan is useful in checking lesions, sinusitis, nasal polyp, and even fracture. In regards preparation, patient is not required but may advised not taking certain medicine which could affect the results. 

What is CT PNS? 

1. CT PNS is an X-ray based examination in which detailed pictures of the sinuses are obtained by using a computer of varying levels of thickness and cross-sections. 
2. The procedure is performed by positioning the patient on a table which is advanced towards the slices of CT machine in the shape of a torus: the machine takes pictures of the sinus in multiple view angles. 

Types of CT PNS: 

Two main types:  

• Non-contrast CT PNS: uses X-rays solely to capture images.  
• Contrast enhanced CT PNS: employs X-rays with a contrast medium to accentuate certain regions or areas. 

Health professionals consider:  

• The size and shape of the various sinuses.  
• The level of thickening of the mucosa.  
• The presence of fluids, polyps or even tumours.  
• The bony structures together with the airway channels. 

Detailed enumeration of conditions or symptoms that typically warrant the test include:  

• Sinusitis.  
• Nasal polyps.  
• Sinus tumours.  
• Fractures.  
• Allergies.  
• Asthma. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Benefits of CT PNS include:  

• Monitoring and accurate diagnosis of serious sinus conditions. 
• Assessment of surgical intervention. 
• Evaluation of a patient’s treatment. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT PNS

• Some commonly used CT PNS diagnostic tools include: 
• Sinusitis  
• Nasal Polyps  
• Fractures  
• Tumours  
• Allergic Reactions 

• Patients must: 
• Report to the site of the test 30 minutes before the scheduled time.  
• Take out any metal objects, including jewellery.  
• As for eating or drinking, it is prohibited a few hours before the test (if contrast material is used). 

Pre-requisites  

• Patients must inform their medical doctor about the following- 
• Any type of medical devices or implants.  
• Pregnancy along with breastfeeding. 

Best Time to Take the CT PNS 

• There's no defined time for patients as they can take the test anytime, but those suffering from severe sinus symptoms might find relief when patients take it a bit earlier when the patient's symptoms are flaring. 

Eligibility 

• There are no age restrictions for those looking to undergo a CT PNS, however, patients with medical problems such as people with kidney diseases might require additional measures. 

Procedure for Taking a CT PNS 

Itemised list of sequential actions:  

• Patient is placed on a table which moves into a CT scanner. 
• The patient's head and torso are turned to the optimal position for obtaining the best quality scan by the technologist. 
• Procedure is usually performed in less than half an hour, usually around 10 minutes. 
• During the scanning, the patient may be required to stop moving and breathe softly. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• For the scan, the patients have to discuss with their doctor about: 
• Any medical devices/implants that have been placed. 
• Having allergies to materials or medicines that are used in contrast.  
• Are expecting or are already nursing infants.