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CT scans are frequently used to evaluate the sinuses, also called the paranasal sinuses. This test is frequently ordered to look for sinus disease. On your doctor's order you may see "r/o sinus disease", "h/o sinus disease", "allergy, cough, rhinitis"

(FYI - "r/o" is short for "rule out" and "h/o" stands for "history of")

A CT scan of the sinuses is usually ordered for sinus infection but is also done as part of a preoperative evaluation for sinus surgery. Sinus CT scans can also pick up tumors of the sinuses as well.

A CT scan of the sinuses will evaluate:

Sinus cavities

These are the air filled boney structures that make up the sinuses.  They are called the maxillary sinus, ethmoid air cells, frontal sinus and sphenoid sinus. All of these ultimately communicate with the nasal cavity via various passages and channels. If these passages are blocked, the normally secreted mucus can't escape and builds up causing pressure and pain.

Sinus Mucosa

The sinus cavities are lined by a thin layer of tissue called "mucosa". This tissue produces mucus. The mucosa can become inflamed causing symptoms related to sinusitis - pressure, pain, and sinus discharge for example.

Nasal Cavity

The nasal cavity contains boney structures called turbinates which are lined by mucosa as well. This tissue can become inflamed and give rise to nasal polyps which can cause stuffiness and difficulty breathing (through the nose).

Other structures

Other parts of the bones and tissues near your sinuses are included in a CT scan of the sinuses. These include the eyes, jaw bones, mouth and parts of the skull.

Your Sinus CT Scan

A sinus CT generally takes about 5 minutes or so to complete.  This scan can be done either laying flat on your back or on your stomach with your chin propped up by a soft pad.

If you're insured, you may need to have your test authorized (approved) by your insurance company first. If you're uninsured  use our website to look up CT sinus scan costs, find a certified imaging center and buy your test with a credit card.

Have you had a Sinus CT scan? What was it like? Please leave your comments below.