CT Scan of the Sinuses
What is a CT Scan of the Sinuses?
How do you get ready for the test?
What is done during the Sinus CT Scan?
How long will the test take?
How do you get to your test?
What is a CT scan of the sinuses?
A CT or CAT scan is a shortened name for computerized tomography. A CT scan takes pictures of the inside of the body. The pictures are more detailed than a typical x-ray. During a CT scan of the sinuses pictures are taken of cross sections or slices of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities in your head. CT scans can identify problems with your sinuses. Your doctor will use this information to determine the best treatment for you.
How do you get ready for the test?
- Avoid doing a nasal wash at least 24 hours before a sinus CT scan..
- Remove glasses, earrings, hearing aids and dental appliances before the sinus CT scan.
What is done during the sinus CT scan?
The CT scan does not hurt. The radiology technologist will explain the CT scan to you before you start. Ask questions if you don't understand. Before the study you/your child will need to remove glasses, earrings, hearing aids and dental appliances.
The CT scanner includes a table you will lie on and a doughnut shaped ring that will move over the table. You will lie still on the table. The technologist will give you instructions during the test. While you hold still the table will move through the ring while pictures are taken. It is important to lie still while the images are taken.
Young children may have trouble lying still during the CT scan. If this is the case the child may be given medicine to make him or her sleepy first. This is done is the Pediatric Care Unit. If this is done first, a nurse will also be at the CT scan. If you are concerned your young child may not be able to hold still talk with your doctor before the CT scan.
How long will the test take?
A CT scan of the sinuses takes about 15 minutes. The actual test will take about 5 minutes.
How do you get to your test?
Your appointment is in radiology. Radiology is in the basement of the May building.
On the day of your test, first report to the Admissions Desk just inside the Main Entrance. Then, take the elevator in the lobby just north of the Main Entrance down one floor to the basement. Follow the signs to radiology (left down the hall, then right to the radiology reception and check-in area).
If you have questions, or will not be able to make your appointment, please call: 303-398-1611.
Get directions to and see a campus map of National Jewish.
This information has been approved by John Newell, M.D. and Will Cook, R.T., M.A. (June 2006).
