Contents
Computed tomography (CT) adnexal sinuses – a type of x-ray examination used to assess the condition these structures, diagnosis of diseases and injuries. The direction for this procedure is written by an otolaryngologist.
This diagnostic method is used when the usual x-ray examination didn’t give any results. Radiation during CT examination is minimal, so the risk side effects from radiation are quite low.
Indications for use
The doctor prescribes a CT scan in the presence of the following symptoms: runny nose, frequent headache or toothache of a throbbing nature, persistent nasal congestion, heaviness when breathing, pain when touching the paranasal region, severe head or face trauma, the presence of a foreign body in the nose, suspicion of malignant or benign formations, persistent blockage and pain in the ears.
The computer method of research is prescribed during the planning of an endoscopic surgical operation, which is performed through the nose.
Before it begins, the doctor must see the curvature of the nasal septum and additional maxillary canals.
This procedure also allows you to determine the causes of respiratory failure, the presence of small foreign bodies, changes in the structure of the nasal sinuses, the presence of small formations (polyps), the condition of the bones of the facial skull and sinuses after injuries, the recurrent course of sinusitis, sinusitis, etc.
Preparatory process
X-ray examination does not require special preparation. Before starting, the patient must remove dentures, jewelry, remove metal objects and any magnetic media from pockets.
If it is necessary to use contrast agents, a blood test for creatinine levels should be taken. Before CT, you can drink and eat food if it is carried out without the use of contrasts.
The radiation dose for CT is minimal, but this study should not be abused. It is recommended to carry out 1 time per year, all other cases are discussed with the doctor.
How is the procedure performed
Examination of the brain and other parts of the head is carried out in the following order:
- the patient lies on a special table, the neck is located on a comfortable stand, and the head is fixed with straps;
- the table drives into a special chamber equipped with an x-ray tube that produces radiation;
- the sinus scan process lasts some minutes. The more revolutions the sensor makes, the more detailed the area is shown;
- the image obtained as a result of scanning is displayed on the monitor screen;
- during the procedure, the patient should not move, as this will affect the quality of the image.
Deciphering the results obtained radiologist. Ultimately, the patient receives a picture, a written report and a digital media with a record of the study. This information will help guide treatment. A re-examination is carried out to monitor the development of pathologies, evaluate treatment methods and in case of inaccurate analysis results.
Advantages
The main advantages of CT are:
- painlessness and safety of the study;
- high research speed;
- allows timely diagnosis of pathological processes in the paranasal sinuses;
- the ability to check the bones of the skull, soft tissues and blood vessels;
- the resulting image is of high quality, on which all changes will be visible;
- use in diagnosing patients who have had medical devices installed;
- The use of CT in an emergency allows for the diagnosis of disorders and the initiation of immediate treatment.
Negative properties
Computed tomography of the sinuses has its drawbacks. Contraindications for the examination are pregnancy, since the fetus is not yet fully formed, claustrophobia, overweight and hyperkinesia in the patient; as well as breastfeeding, if the examination is carried out additionally with contrast enhancement. In this case, contraindications also include allergic reactions to iodine used as a contrast agent.
People under the influence of alcohol or drugs are not allowed to CT.
CT scan or MRI
An alternative option for examining the paranasal tract is MRI. These two methods complement each other. CT allows you to determine and pathology of predominantly bone tissues, to determine the presence of cracks that cannot be seen on MRI. CT in such situations is a more accurate method of examination and is carried out with a small step.
MRI is prescribed by a doctor to study the mucous membranes and soft tissues, namely to identify the tumor and determine its size. It allows you to find malignant tumors, as well as other complications caused by trauma to the skull. MRI is in such matters more accurate and reliable method, but its cost exceeds CT by 2 times. Before starting the examination, you should consult with your doctor.
Conclusion
A neglected condition of the paranasal sinuses can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, it is necessary to quickly find the cause and address it. For quick diagnosis, the otolaryngologist prescribes a CT scan. Thanks to this method, you can see the pathology and examine it in detail.
The method of computed tomography is absolutely painless for a person. A low level of exposure reduces the risk of cancer to zero.