CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) - Plain

Overview

CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain is a non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan specially designed to provide detailed cross-sectional images of the paranasal sinuses (PNS) and related anatomical structures. This scan captures images in two essential planes — axial (horizontal slices from top to bottom) and coronal (vertical slices from front to back) — offering a comprehensive layered view that helps doctors assess the sinuses, nasal cavity, and surrounding bones with remarkable clarity. Unlike scans performed with contrast dye, the plain CT PNS focuses on visualizing bony anatomy and air-filled cavities rather than highlighting blood vessels or soft tissue lesions. It remains the preferred imaging technique for routine evaluation of sinus diseases, chronic infections, and structural problems, especially in patients who cannot receive contrast dye due to allergies, kidney concerns, or specific clinical indications.

Purpose of CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain

Doctors may recommend CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain for several reasons where a clear understanding of sinus anatomy is critical. Common indications include:

1. Chronic or Recurrent Sinusitis

• Evaluates mucosal thickening, fluid levels, and sinus blockage.
• Identifies anatomical variations that predispose patients to infections.

2. Nasal Obstruction and Deviated Septum

• Maps out the shape and position of the nasal septum.
• Detects bone spurs or deviations contributing to breathing difficulties.

3. Evaluation of Nasal Polyps or Cysts

• Assesses the presence and extent of benign mucosal lesions or polyps.

4. Facial Trauma

• Detects fractures of the nasal bones, sinus walls, and orbital floors.
• Determines displacement of bone fragments or injury to surrounding structures.

5. Congenital Anomalies

• Identifies underdeveloped or absent sinuses, septal deformities, or other developmental abnormalities.

6. Pre-Surgical Assessment

• Provides a detailed anatomical map before functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) or septoplasty.

7. Post-Surgical Follow-up

• Monitors healing, bone remodeling, and checks for residual disease.

8. Headache and Facial Pain

• Helps identify sinus inflammation, fluid accumulation, or structural abnormalities linked to symptoms.

Procedure for CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain

The scan itself is typically quick, comfortable, and usually completed within 10–15 minutes.

Before the Scan

• No special preparation or fasting is generally required.
• Remove metal objects from the head and face area (glasses, hairpins, earrings) to avoid artifacts.
• Inform your doctor or technician if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.

During the Scan

• You’ll lie comfortably on the CT scanner table.
• The technician will carefully position your head to capture both axial and coronal images.
• The machine rotates around your head, taking thin, precise slices.
• The scan is painless, and you’ll only need to stay still to ensure clear images.

After the Scan

• Since no contrast dye is used, you can resume normal activities immediately.
• The radiologist will analyze the images and send a detailed report to your referring doctor, usually within 24–48 hours.

Benefits of CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain

• High-resolution bone imaging: Captures fine details of sinus walls, septum, and adjacent bones.
• Dual-plane imaging: Combining axial and coronal views provides a complete anatomical assessment.
• Quick and non-invasive: A routine, outpatient procedure requiring no recovery time.
• Ideal for patients unsuitable for contrast: No risk of contrast dye reactions or kidney concerns.
• Essential for surgical planning: Helps ENT surgeons map out safe and precise surgical approaches.

Conditions Commonly Diagnosed

• Chronic and acute sinusitis.
• Mucosal thickening and sinus blockage.
• Nasal polyps and mucous retention cysts.
• Deviated nasal septum and bone spurs.
• Fractures of sinus walls, nasal bones, or orbits.
• Congenital anomalies of sinus development.
• Structural causes of headache or facial pain.
• Post-surgical bone healing and residual disease.

Risks and Considerations

While CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain is a low-risk procedure, it is important to be aware of some considerations:

Radiation Exposure

• CT scans use ionizing radiation; however, modern scanners use low-dose protocols to minimize exposure.
• Benefits of accurate diagnosis usually outweigh this small risk.

Pregnancy

• CT scans are generally avoided in pregnant patients unless absolutely necessary, to protect the fetus.

Motion Sensitivity

• Even slight movement during scanning can blur images; patients must remain still for a few seconds.

Limited Soft Tissue Contrast

• Without contrast dye, the scan may not show certain vascular or subtle soft tissue changes clearly.

When Might Your Doctor Recommend It?

Your doctor might suggest CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain if you:

• Have persistent or recurrent sinus infections.
• Experience facial pain, headache, or nasal obstruction.
• Need evaluation before sinus surgery or septoplasty.
• Have suffered facial or nasal trauma.
• Present with suspected nasal polyps, cysts, or congenital anomalies.
• Need follow-up imaging after sinus surgery.
• Cannot safely receive contrast dye due to allergies or kidney disease.

Conclusion

The paranasal sinuses and nasal structures play vital roles in breathing, voice resonance, and overall facial health. Structural problems, chronic infections, and trauma can significantly affect quality of life, making accurate imaging a key part of diagnosis and treatment planning. CT PNS (Axial + Coronal) – Plain offers a safe, quick, and highly detailed way to visualize the bones, air-filled cavities, and mucosal linings of the sinuses without the need for contrast dye. Its dual-plane imaging helps ENT specialists and surgeons get a complete view of both normal anatomy and disease.