At Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, we also provide advanced diagnostic imaging and radiology services and are a NABL & NABH-accredited diagnostic centre to avail NCCT PNS at the centre. This non-contrast computed tomography (CT) of paranasal sinuses can produce very detailed images of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses in both axial and coronal planes – to assess sinus inflammation and nasal obstruction and the morphology of the nasal cavity and associated sinus structures.

About NCCT PNS (AX. & COR)

Non-contrast computed tomography (CT) imaging of the Paranasal Sinuses (AX. & COR) is a specialized CT exam which involves non-intravenous examination of the paranasal sinuses. Paranasal sinuses: They are the air-filled spaces around your nose and include the maxillary sinuses, frontal sinus, and ethmoid sinus, as well as the sphenoid sinuses. The scan creates detailed images of the sinus cavities and their walls, drainage channels, and surrounding structures. Axial and coronal views are complementary anatomical views that can help to assess sinus opacification, thickening of the mucosa, anatomical variations, and other abnormalities.  NCCT PNS is generally ordered for assessment of chronic sinus symptoms, and is sometimes ordered before certain sinus procedures or surgery.

What is NCCT PNS (AX. & COR)?

NCCT stands for Non-Contrast Computed Tomography, while PNS refers to the paranasal sinuses. The examination uses X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images without injecting a contrast agent.

• Axial (AX) View: Provides horizontal cross-sectional images of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses.
• Coronal (COR) View: Provides front-oriented images that help assess sinus drainage pathways, sinus walls, and nearby anatomical structures.

Together, these views help radiologists evaluate the extent of sinus disease and identify structural features that may contribute to nasal blockage or recurrent sinus symptoms.

Common Reasons for NCCT PNS (AX. & COR)

• All these views provide the radiologist with a key role in assessing the degree of sinus disease and identifying the structures involved that could result in the blockage of the nose or frequent sinusitis symptoms.
• There are several common reasons for NCCT PNS (AX. & COR), and these can be summarized as follows:
• Evaluation of persisting or recurrent sinus inflammation, Chronic Sinusitis.
• Nasal Blockage – Examination of anatomical abnormalities or sinus disruptions that may be responsible for nasal breathing difficulties.
• Facial Pain or Pressure: Work-up of clinically suspected abnormalities.
• Evaluation of sinus anatomy and extent of disease in patients with recurrent symptoms: Recurrent Sinus Infections.
• Mucosal Thickening: Evaluation of thickening of sinus lining and changes.
• Nasal polyps: Assessment of opacification of the sinuses and anatomical changes observed when they are suspected.
• Deviated Nasal Septum: Examination of how the nasal septum deviates and how it relates to the rest of the anatomical structures of the nose.
• Evaluation of sinus drainage obstruction: Medical evaluation of drainage of the sinus pathway in the way that it allows the passage of the fluid (mucus) from the sinus to the nasal cavity.
• Preoperative Assessment: Comprehensive evaluation of sinus anatomy before certain endoscopic sinus surgery techniques.

Conditions Evaluated

Chronic and Recurrent Sinusitis

NCCT PNS can be useful to help with identifying any mucosal thickening, partial and/or total opacification of the sinuses, and other changes associated with chronic and/or recurrent sinus disease. Symptoms and clinical examination are integrated into the findings to interpret the results.

Maxillary Sinus Abnormalities

The cheekbones hold a pair of maxillary sinuses on either side of the nose. CT can be helpful for determining the extent of mucosal thickening, fluid levels, retention cysts, and other abnormalities of these sinuses.

Frontal Sinus Abnormalities

Frontal sinuses are above the eyes. The scan can diagnose their development, aeration, and the presence of inflammatory changes and/or opacification.

Ethmoid Sinus Abnormalities

The ethmoid sinuses are a series of small air pockets in between the eye sockets. CT can very accurately examine these air cells and may also be able to detect inflammatory changes and abnormalities in the areas where the sinuses drain.

Sphenoid Sinus Abnormalities

Sphenoid sinuses are deeper inside the skull behind the nose. They can evaluate their aeration, bony walls, and selected structural abnormalities with the CT machine.

Anatomical Variations of the Sinus Region

The scan will be able to detect any variation in sinus structure and certain variations in the turbinates and drainage tracts. The results can be helpful in the assessment of symptoms or for surgical management of the sinuses.

Nasal Polyps and Sinus Opacification

Soft tissue density in the sinuses or nasal cavity may be visible on CT, as a result of either polyps or inflammatory disease. The diagnosis may require clinical examination, which may be supplemented by nasal endoscopy, if appropriate.

Sinus Drainage Pathway Abnormalities

The coronal and axial views are useful in evaluating the anatomy of the sinus drainage pathways. Persistent or recurrent sinus symptoms may warrant consideration of structural narrowing/obstruction.

Preoperative Sinus Assessment

NCCT PNS offers anatomical data which may help the specialist to plan the selected endoscopic sinus surgeries. It aids in the identification of the sinus cavity, bony boundaries, and other structures nearby.

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

Molecular Diagnostic and Therapy Centre is accredited by NABL & NABH, offering the latest diagnostics and therapeutic facilities under a single roof. Our diagnostic imaging services are centered around using appropriate scan protocols, quality acquisition of imaging data, patient comfort, and reliability in reporting. Prior to the scan, patients are informed when and how they should prepare for the scan and any precautions to take.

Book Your NCCT PNS (AX. & COR)

If your physician has suggested an NCCT PNS (AX. & COR), call Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy to make an appointment for your exam. Take the prescription, previous CT scan/ MRI scans, ENT Consultation notes, and any other relevant medical records (if available). Let the imaging team know if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant before the imaging procedure.