CT Skull Base, Facial Bones, Sinuses
Computed tomography of the facial bones, orbits, mandible and sella are focused exams that provide better detail of the region of interest.
Similarly, CT of the sinuses is a focused exam that looks at the frontal ethmoid, sphenoid and maxillary sinuses, as well as the nasal passages, turbinates and septum.
Indications
- Examination of a mass.
- Fractures
- Mandible dislocation
- Sinus disease
- Evaluation of osseous structures
Contrast
Most of these exams do not require contrast. This will be determined by the ordering physician and/or the imaging physician
Preparation
Without Contrast:
No preparation is required.
With Contrast:
- Only one CT contrast study should be scheduled within a 48 hour period.
- BUN and creatinine must be done within 72 hours of the scan.
- Nothing but clear liquid after midnight before the scan.
- NPO four hours prior to exam (no food or drink).
Anesthesia is generally not required, but may be indicated depending on the patient. Anesthesia on these studies always needs to be authorized by an imaging physician.
