CT PNS Plain (Three Plain)axial, Coronal & Saggital

Overview

CT PNS Plain (Three Planes): Axial, Coronal & Sagittal is a detailed, non-contrast computed tomography (CT) scan focused on imaging the paranasal sinuses (PNS) and adjacent structures. This scan captures high-resolution images in three different anatomical planes:

• Axial: horizontal slices from top to bottom.
• Coronal: vertical slices from front to back.
• Sagittal: vertical slices from left to right.

This triple-plane approach gives ENT specialists, radiologists, and surgeons a complete, 360-degree view of the sinuses, nasal cavity, septum, and adjacent bones. Even without contrast dye, it remains the gold standard for evaluating bone structures, chronic sinus disease, congenital anomalies, and trauma.

Purpose of CT PNS Plain (Three Planes)

Doctors may recommend this comprehensive scan for many clinical reasons, including:

1. Chronic or Recurrent Sinusitis

• Detects chronic inflammation, mucosal thickening, and fluid accumulation.
• Reveals blocked sinus drainage pathways and extent of disease.

2. Nasal Obstruction and Septal Deviations

• Shows precise shape and deviation of the nasal septum.
• Evaluates bone spurs or concha bullosa affecting airflow.

3. Pre-Surgical Evaluation

• Provides a complete anatomical roadmap before functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).
• Helps surgeons plan the safest route and understand anatomical variations.

4. Facial or Nasal Trauma

• Detects fractures of sinus walls, orbital floor, nasal bones, and other facial structures.
• Determines displacement or presence of bone fragments.

5. Congenital Anomalies

• Identifies underdeveloped sinuses, septal deformities, and variations in sinus shape or drainage.

6. Evaluation of Nasal Polyps and Benign Lesions

• Maps the location and effect of polyps or mucous retention cysts.
• Helps assess obstruction of sinus outflow tracts.

7. Headache and Facial Pain

• Determines if chronic sinus disease or structural abnormalities contribute to symptoms.

8. Post-Surgical Follow-up

• Checks for residual disease, bone remodeling, or surgical complications.

Procedure for CT PNS Plain (Three Planes)

This scan is comfortable and generally quick, typically completed within 10–15 minutes.

Before the Scan

• No fasting or special preparation required.
• Remove any metal objects near the face (glasses, earrings, hairpins) to prevent artifacts.
• Inform the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy.

During the Scan

• You will lie still on the CT scanner table.
• The scanner captures thin, sequential slices in three planes: axial, coronal, and sagittal.
• The scan is completely painless; you may need to hold your breath briefly to reduce movement.

After the Scan

• No recovery time or observation is needed.
• You can immediately return to your normal routine.
• A radiologist will review the images and send a detailed report to your doctor within 24–48 hours.

Benefits of CT PNS Plain (Three Planes)

• Complete anatomical overview: Triple-plane imaging offers a detailed and holistic view.
• High-resolution bone detail: Essential for trauma, chronic sinus disease, and surgical planning.
• Non-invasive and fast: A routine outpatient procedure requiring no contrast dye.
• Ideal for patients unsuitable for contrast: Safe for those with kidney disease or allergies.
• Improves surgical safety: By revealing anatomical variations and potential complications.

Conditions Commonly Diagnosed

• Chronic and acute sinusitis.
• Deviated nasal septum and bone spurs.
• Nasal polyps and mucosal cysts.
• Fractures of the nasal bones, orbital floor, and sinus walls.
• Congenital anomalies like hypoplastic sinuses.
• Post-operative changes and residual disease.
• Structural causes of headaches or facial pain.

Risks and Considerations

Although CT PNS Plain (Three Planes) is generally very safe, it is important to consider:

Radiation Exposure

• CT uses ionizing radiation; however, protocols minimize exposure while maintaining diagnostic accuracy.

Pregnancy

• Avoided unless medically necessary to protect fetal health.

Motion Artifacts

• Small movements can blur images; staying still is important.

Limited Soft Tissue Visualization

• Without contrast dye, subtle vascular lesions or inflammation might be less visible.

When Might Your Doctor Recommend It?

This scan might be recommended if you:

• Have ongoing sinus infections or nasal obstruction.
• Need assessment before sinus surgery or septoplasty.
• Present with facial pain, headaches, or swelling.
• Have a history of trauma to the nose or face.
• Show signs of nasal polyps, mucosal thickening, or cysts.
• Need follow-up after previous sinus surgery.
• Have congenital anomalies requiring evaluation.

Conclusion

The paranasal sinuses and nasal structures play critical roles in breathing, voice resonance, and overall comfort. When inflammation, structural problems, or trauma affect this area, accurate imaging becomes essential. CT PNS Plain (Three Planes): Axial, Coronal & Sagittal provides a complete, high-resolution view of your sinus anatomy without contrast dye. Its multi-plane imaging helps ENT specialists and surgeons see each layer and structure clearly—supporting diagnosis, guiding safe surgical planning, and ensuring personalized care.