The paranasal sinus computerised tomography (PNS) test is used to detect disease of the paranasal sinuses, which are air-filled hollow spaces in the facial bones surrounding the nasal cavities. The test is used to diagnose diseases such as sinus birth defects, sinus infection in the bone, nasal polyps, sinusitis, sinus infection/inflammation, and sinus tumours. Using X-rays, this test quickly creates images of the sinuses. During the test, you may experience minor discomfort such as a burning sensation, a metallic taste in your mouth, and a warm flushing of the mouth, which is completely normal.
When Sinusitis or Post Nasal Drip (PND) is suspected, a doctor may order a CT PNS. Postnasal drip is the discharge of mucus from the sinuses and nose that can cause pinprick-like pain in the throat.
This test is also used to diagnose various problems in the human body. These could include:
The cause of repeated blood loss from the nose, among other things.
Some CT scan PNS examinations may require the patient to be injected with a contrast dye prior to the test to help specific areas stand out. Your technician will almost certainly inject a contrast dye into your hand or forearm. You will be instructed not to eat or drink for 6 hours prior to the examination.
When you are injected with contrast, you may feel the need to urinate; however, this is merely a contrast effect that fades quickly.
If you are diabetic and use insulin, make sure you tell your doctor everything about yourself because he or she may need to adjust your dose before the exam.
If you are allergic to a particular food or X-Ray, you should notify your radiologist or technician ahead of time. Also, please notify the technologist if you have any heart, asthma, or kidney complications, or if you are pregnant.
CT scanners typically have a weight limit as well. If you are on the heavier side of the scale, inform your technician because excessive weight can damage the scanner.
And during CT scan PNS procedure, the patient will be asked to lie down on a table that will eventually slide into the centre of the CT scanner. Light lines projected onto your body may be seen in the room. These are used to ensure that you are correctly positioned.
Typically, a CT scan PNS is performed without the use of a contrast dye. If you are scheduled for a contrast dye examination, you must not eat or drink anything 6 hours before the exam.
The primary risk associated with a CT scan is radiation exposure. It should be noted that the patient is exposed to more radiation during this procedure than during an X-Ray. Having multiple X-rays and CT scans can increase your chances of developing cancer over time.
If you are or may become pregnant, notify your doctor immediately because radiation can harm a developing foetus.
If you are allergic to contrast dye, you must notify your doctor before having a contrast scan. One of the most common dyes used for a CT scan PNS examination contains iodine. If you are allergic, you may experience nausea, vomiting, itching, or sneezing if given the medication.
A Paranasal Sinus Computerised Tomography (PNS) Test is typically performed in a hospital's radiology department or an outpatient imaging facility. So, for the best services and reliable results, schedule your test at Ganesh Diagnostic in Yamuna Vihar.