CT imaging is the most accurate way to look at the sinuses and determine if they are obstructed due to sinusitis or other conditions.
CT stands for “computed tomography”, which is a specialized type of x-ray that can evaluate the sinus cavities. During a CT imaging appointment, medical images of your sinuses will be produced. CT imaging produces more detailed results than traditional x-rays and can provide doctors with an insight into the anatomy of the paranasal sinuses and nasal cavity.
CT imaging works similarly to other types of x-rays. Some CT imaging machines require you to sit, and others require you to stand. The imaging machine will move around your head to capture the scans. The process is fairly quick, typically just a couple of minutes long. For certain examinations, you may be asked to hold your breath, as even small movements can affect the image outcomes. Once it has been determined that the images are of high enough quality, the imaging will be over.
CT imaging will be recommended by a provider to determine if you have sinusitis and/or other forms of sinonasal abnormalities/disorders that cannot be easily evaluated on routine examination. This may include various forms of chronic sinusitis such as nasal polyps, mucocele, fungal sinusitis, or fungal balls, as well as other disorders such as cerebrospinal fluid leaks and nasal tumors. Some patients also may require CT imaging before surgery, as it can be used for intraoperative surgical image guidance, i.e. “surgical GPS”.
Although few physicians have in-office CTs available to their patients, we offer this service. Some of the benefits include:
Texas ENT Specialists is Houston’s premier provider of comprehensive ENT care. We offer treatment for a wide range of conditions, specializing in those that affect the ear, nose, throat, sinuses, and more. We proudly serve our patients in 15 convenient office locations across the Houston area. At Texas ENT Specialists, we are committed to providing:
Personalized Treatment
Each patient has their own unique background and symptoms, so we believe their ENT care should be as unique as they are.
Top-Rated Physician Network
Each of our locations is staffed with a team of top-rated providers who are fellowship-trained and independently board-certified.
Centers of Excellence
Each of our locations is equipped with the latest technology to help us provide comprehensive care and deliver a seamless patient experience from start to finish.
Continuity of Care
With our comprehensive care philosophy and network of highly trained providers, we work to ensure you gain long-term relief, not just a short-term fix.
Patients who fail appropriate medical management for sinusitis and or other sinonasal disorders are ideal candidates for CT imaging. CT images can provide your surgeon with additional information and provide a complete clinical picture of your ailments. Patients who are pregnant are not advised to undergo the treatment.
The scanning process is very quick, typically only taking a few minutes.
No. The process is non-invasive, safe, and takes just a few minutes to perform.
