CT scan of the sinuses

CT – Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic method that uses X-rays to create detailed, three-dimensional images of internal organs and structures. During the scanning process, the patient is placed on a table that moves slowly through a cylindrical machine, through which X-rays pass from multiple angles. A special program then combines the resulting images to create a three-dimensional image of the inside of the body. CT is used to diagnose a variety of health problems, including detecting tumors, traumatic injuries, blood clots, and other conditions. It is important to note that CT uses X-rays, which can represent a certain dose of radiation, so its use must be carefully considered in relation to the benefits and risks.

CT scan of the sinuses at the Atrijum Sarajevo polyclinic

CT sinuses on the Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice device has several advantages compared to other CT devices:
High resolution: Toshiba Aquilion 160 slice has high image resolution.
Scanning speed: Thanks to the large number of detectors (in this case 160 slice), scanning is faster than on devices with fewer “slices”. This reduces the risk of motion artifacts, improves image quality, and reduces patient exposure to radiation.
Low radiation dose: Advanced image processing techniques, such as iterative reconstruction and the use of low-dose protocols, reduce the radiation dose needed to achieve high-quality images.
Precise diagnostics: High resolution and scanning speed enable precise diagnostics.
Patient comfort: Faster scanning reduces the time spent in the scanner, which improves patient comfort and reduces anxiety.

What is CT sinuses (PNS)?

CT sinuses is a radiological examination where CT imaging of layers is performed and computer processing of data provides diagnostic information for assessing the paranasal cavities (space within the facial bones surrounding the nasal cavity, filled with air).

CT sinuses has a wide range of specific injuries and symptoms that are indications for performing this examination. CT sinuses is used to assess the paranasal sinus cavities to determine if they are filled with pathological content, have thickened membranes, presence of inflammatory diseases, and other pathological changes.
Some of them are:
– information on the filling of some space with content
– membrane thickening
– polyps
– headaches in the area above the eyebrows or below the eyes
– inflammatory diseases (sinusitis)
– deviation of the nasal septum
– tumor processes of the nasal cavity
– cysts

For this examination, the patient prepares by removing all metal parts from their body, whether clothing or jewelry. During the examination itself, the patient’s position is lying down, with a headrest. It is possible that contrast medium is used for certain patients, which is injected into the patient’s body to improve visibility of the paranasal cavities, but it is used only in cases where the doctor has indicated it and decided there are no contraindications for receiving such contrast medium.

During the examination, the patient is alone in the room where the CT device is located. After positioning the patient, the radiology engineer plans the examination field. The device is in the shape of a large ring containing a tube with X-rays and detectors. The table on which the patient lies moves forward and backward. During the examination, it is very important that the patient remains completely still, as even the slightest movements affect the quality of the examination. CT scanning is painless, non-invasive, and precise. Also, CT sinuses is the most reliable imaging technique to detect changes and inflammation of the sinuses – sinusitis.

The room is soundproofed, and throughout the entire examination, the radiology engineer who performs it monitors it.

If you are planning pregnancy, it would be best to perform the examination in the first.