How is the CT sinus Scan Procedure Performed?

In a CT sinus scan, several x-ray beams pass through the head at various angles. Special sensors measure the amount of radiation absorbed by the bone and mucous (if applicable) within the sinus. The air contained in the sinus will appear black.

In order to undergo a CT sinus scan, your general physician must write you a letter of referral stating why he or she believes a CT sinus scan is necessary in your situation. A CT sinus scan will take place in either a hospital or in an outpatient radiology center.

During the CT sinus scan, the patient lies in two positions. Both positions require the patient to lie very still with his or her head positioned in a holder. In the first position, the patient lies on his or her back and rests the arms at the sides. In the second position, the patient lies on the stomach and rests his head on his or her chin. The scanner covers the patient’s head.

The table on which the patient lies is rolled into the center of the CT scanner. The CT scanner revolves around the patient and emits and records x-ray beams. The different areas of the sinus absorb different amounts of x-ray. A special computer program then forms graphical cross-sections, or “tomograms,” based on these x-ray absorption differences.

Once the patient enters the scanner, the technologist may turn on special lights to ensure the patient is positioned properly for the CT sinus scan. Though the technologist will not actually be in the room with the patient, an intercom within the scanner allows the patient and technologist to communicate throughout the procedure. The technologist will tell the patient when and how to breathe, as breath can disrupt the CT image.

A typical CT sinus scan takes about 15 minutes. (Note that most of this is preparation time; the scan itself is done very quickly.) The duration of the CT sinus scan depends on the number of images needed to get the information the doctor requires. At the conclusion of the CT sinus scan, the technologist will look over the images to ensure sufficient images have been created to provide the radiologist with the necessary information. If more images are necessary, the technologist will ask the patient to stay for further scanning.