Cost of CT Scan PNS in India
Request a Call Back
Table of contents
What is CT Scan PNS?
Computerised Tomography (CT) scan of the Paranasal Sinuses (PNS) is performed on a multislice CT Scanner. It is a diagnostic procedure where rotating beams of X-rays are used to create cross-sectional images of the PNS, which are air-filled hollow spaces in the facial bones surrounding the nasal cavities. These can then be used to create a three-dimensional image of the Paranasal Sinuses, which helps to assess and diagnose any suspected diseases of the sinuses. It is also the most reliable imaging technique for determining if the sinuses are obstructed and the best imaging modality for sinusitis.
Why is the CT Scan PNS done?
- To detect and diagnose chronic sinusitis or the presence of any fluid in the sinus cavities.
- To detect any infections or inflammation of the sinuses.
- To detect the presence of any tumours.
- To plan and guide the treatment procedures if any is conducted.
- To diagnose suspected deviated nasal septum.
- To check for polyps or injury in the sinus cavity.
- To detect birth defects related to sinuses.
- To check the causes of repeated bloody noses (epistaxis).
- Sinus infection (sinusitis).
Who should get the CT Scan PNS done?
Men and women of all age groups can get this test done. It should be avoided in pregnant women as radiation will harm the unborn baby.
Disclaimer: It is advised to always consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
What precautions should I take?
- Please follow the instructions suggested by your doctor.
- Inform if one is on any medications or if any ongoing treatment is going on.
- Show your old reports, if any.
- Inform if one is pregnant or breastfeeding or menstruating.
What does the CT Scan PNS test measure?
CT Scan PNS is the most commonly used imaging technique in the field of otolaryngology. The test has been used to detect and study the abnormalities in paranasal sinuses. CT Scan PNS is a non-invasive reliable imaging technique that measures
- Obstruction or inflammation in the sinus.
- Evaluate sinuses that are filled with fluid or thickened sinus membranes.
- Detects the presence of inflammatory diseases.
- Provide additional information about tumours of the nasal cavity and sinuses.
- To get a clear picture of the boundary and surroundings of the nose for treatment.
- As a guide for surgical procedures.
- To identify any defect or mass in the sinus.
- Detect any fracture in the nasal part.
What tests are ordered usually along with CT Scan PNS to get a correct diagnosis?
Depending on the conditions, the doctor may order other tests that may include the following:
- Nasal cytology: It allows assessing the normal and pathological aspects of the nasal mucosa, by identifying and counting the cell types and their morphology.
- Ciliary function test: Examination of the ciliary ultrastructure by electron microscopy in a nasal or bronchial ciliary biopsy sample can be used as a diagnostic test. Electron microscopy reveals the abnormalities in the cilia.
- Sweat chloride test: measures the amount of chloride in sweat. It is used to diagnose cystic fibrosis (CF). CF is a disease that causes mucus build-up in the lungs and other organs. It damages the lungs and makes it hard to breathe.
- Nasal culture: Nasopharyngeal culture is a test that examines a sample of secretions from the uppermost part of the throat, behind the nose, to detect organisms that can cause disease.
CT Scan PNS Preparation
- Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
- Remove all the metal objects from your body as they may affect the CT images.
- Your doctor may advise you to not eat or drink anything for a few hours before your exam if it will use contrast material.
- Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking and if you have any allergies.
- Women must inform their healthcare technicians of any chances of pregnancy.
Also tell your doctor about any recent illnesses or other medical conditions and whether you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid problems. Any of these conditions may increase the risk of an adverse effect.
CT Scan PNS test Procedure
- Your healthcare provider will ask you to lie on the back or face down with an elevated chin.
- The technician will make sure to hold the patient still in a certain position during the procedure.
- In certain patients, a contrast material is injected to make the tissues and blood vessels look clear. The contrast material is injected through the veins.
- The table then slides slowly through the machine while the scanning procedure is performed.
- You might be asked to hold your breath as any movement can affect the quality of an image.
- The machine rotates around the individual’s face in a spiral motion.
- The entire procedure is completed within 10 minutes.
What to expect after the CT Scan PNS test is done?
- When the exam is complete, the technologist will ask you to wait until they verify that the images are of high enough quality for accuracy.
- After a CT scan, the technologist will remove your intravenous line. They will cover the puncture made by the needle with a small dressing.
- You may be asked to drink plenty of water for 24 hours post-exam if you have been given IV contrast dye. This will help your kidneys filter out the contrast material from your body.
- You can return to your normal activities immediately.
When will I get the CT Scan PNS test report?
The reports and the images of the scan can be made available within 24 hours. The doctor or the radiologist will review your scan and prepare a report that explains them.
Disclaimer: The time may vary based on your condition and the availability of the radiologist.
How will I get the CT Scan PNS test report?
You will receive your test results within 48 hours of sample collection. The radiologist will send an official report to the doctor who ordered the exam. You can check online by downloading your reports on the MFine web and app platforms.
How to interpret the CT Scan PNS test report?
A radiologist, a doctor specially trained to supervise and interpret, will analyse the radiology images. In the CT scan images, you can see the different sinuses. In your sinuses, which are air-filled cavities, normal, healthy sinuses should be predominantly black whereas white areas indicate bone or fat. Grey indicates tissue or water. Abnormal images appear grey, and it indicates inflammation of the tissues.
Is there any risk involved in CT Scan PNS?
- CT scans expose you to more radiation than regular x-rays. Having many x-rays or CT scans over time may increase your risk for cancer. However, the risk from any one scan is very small. You and your provider should weigh this risk against the benefits of getting a correct diagnosis for a medical problem.
- The test is generally not recommended in pregnant women unless it is necessary.
- If contrast material is administered intravenously, then mothers should avoid feeding babies for 24-48 hours.
- There may occur allergic reactions against contrast material that contains iodine.
- The most common type of contrast given into a vein contains iodine. A person with an iodine allergy may have nausea or vomiting, sneezing, itching, or hives if given this type of contrast.
- Because children are more sensitive to radiation, they should have a CT exam only if it is essential for making a diagnosis. They should not have repeated CT exams unless necessary.
What equipment or instruments are used for CT Scan PNS?
The CT scanner is typically a large, doughnut-shaped machine with a short tunnel in the centre. You will lie on a narrow table that slides in and out of this short tunnel. Rotating around you, the x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other in a ring, called a gantry. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is in a separate control room. This is where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your exam in direct visual contact. The technologist will be able to hear and talk to you using a speaker and microphone.
How long does the CT Scan PNS test take?
A CT scan of the sinuses takes about 15 minutes. The actual test will take about 5 minutes.
How do I book the CT Scan PNS test through MFine?
For further assistance
Frequently asked questions on CT Scan of PNS
What is a CT scan?
CT scans use X-rays to make detailed pictures of the internal structures of your body in cross-sections like slices of the inside of your body. During the test, you will lie on the table that is attached to the scanner, which is a large doughnut-shaped machine. The CT scanner sends X-rays through the body area being studied.
What are the uses of CT scans?
A CT scan has many uses, but it’s particularly well-suited to quickly examine people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of traumas. A CT scan can be used to visualise nearly all parts of the body and is used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical, or radiation treatment.
Why is the PNS CT scan test done?
The test is done to diagnose sinus problems or infection in the sinuses, whether it is acute or chronic. To detect any infection in the sinus region may be caused due to bacteria, viruses, or fungus. To find out the presence of any tumour, bleeding in the sinus.
What are paranasal sinuses?
The paranasal sinuses are air-filled spaces located within the bones of the skull and facial bones.
What are paranasal sinuses disease symptoms?
A typical paranasal sinusitis is a feeling of pressure or pain in the area of the forehead, cheeks, and eyes. This feeling of pressure increases when bending forward or pushing. In addition, fever, tiredness, or swelling of the face may occur. In chronic sinusitis, the symptoms are less severe and usually painless.
Who cannot have a PNS CT scan?
Pregnant women should avoid this scanning as the radiation will harm the unborn child.
Is CT PNS harmful?
As compared to X-ray, CT scan exposes you to more radiation. Having several CT scans over time may increase the risk of cancer. However, the risk of getting one scan is little. You and your provider should weigh this risk against the benefits of getting a correct diagnosis for a medical problem.
Are CT scans of PNS painful?
CT scanning is fast, painless, non-invasive, and accurate. It is often used to determine the cause of unexplained pain. In emergency cases, it can reveal internal injuries and bleed quickly enough to help save lives.
How long does a CT PNS scan take?
How long the scan takes will depend on what parts of your body are being scanned. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to a half-hour. In most cases, you’ll go home the same day.
What are the side effects of a CT scan?
Some people are allergic to contrast materials. Most of the time, the reaction is mild. It can lead to itchiness or a rash. For safety purposes, your health care provider may want to monitor you for a short period after your CT scan. Inform your doctor about any allergies you have two medications or iodine.
Is paranasal’ sinuses disease curable?
Yes absolutely, if it is treated early and with proper scanning, medication, or surgery PNS is curable.
Will a sinus CT scan show a brain tumor?
A typical series of CT scans for the sinuses use less x-ray radiation than a standard complete set of x-rays. However, a CT scan of the sinuses does not show any brain tissue.
What is the cost of CT Scan PNS?
The cost of CT Scan PNS ranges from ₹1000 to ₹7000 on average. However, the variation in cost depends upon the city and the laboratory where the procedure is done.
Is the PNS CT scan covered by the Insurance?
The cost of the scan is generally covered by insurance. However, you should always contact your insurance company for questions regarding your medical care and costs.
What are the benefits of a CT Scan PNS?
- The scan is a safe and reliable imaging technique to study any obstruction or inflammation in the sinus.
- It is beneficial for doctors to plan the safest and effective surgery.
- It is painless, accurate, and non-invasive.
- A good source to get the image of bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels at the same time.
- The test is quick and simple. In emergency cases, it reveals internal injuries.
- It is less sensitive to movement when compared to MRI.
- It can be performed with implanted medical devices of any kind.
Disclaimer: The content is uniquely informative and is meant for educational use. Kindly use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified or registered healthcare provider.