Tag Archives: sinus

Head CT
4
Feb

Overview

Head CT is rapid and widely available for acute neurologic assessment. It detects hemorrhage fractures and mass effect. CT is the first line tool in many emergency settings.

Trauma and Hemorrhage

CT identifies acute intracranial hemorrhage and skull fractures. Rapid detection guides neurosurgical and critical care interventions. Repeat imaging monitors evolution of findings.

Chronic Disease

CT evaluates chronic sinus disease calcifications and bone pathology. It complements MRI for certain indications and surgical planning. Non contrast and contrast enhanced protocols are used as appropriate.

Limitations and Complementary Imaging

CT has limited soft tissue contrast compared with MRI. MRI provides superior evaluation of brain parenchyma and posterior fossa. Choice of modality depends on clinical question and timing.

ENT Imaging
4
Feb

Overview

ENT imaging uses CT MRI and ultrasound depending on the clinical question. It evaluates sinus disease temporal bone pathology and tumors. Imaging guides surgical planning and intervention.

Temporal Bone

High resolution CT assesses ossicles cochlea and bony anatomy. MRI evaluates soft tissue and nerve related pathology. Combined imaging provides comprehensive assessment for hearing loss and infection.

Sinus Disease

CT characterizes sinus anatomy and inflammatory disease. Imaging assists in planning endoscopic sinus surgery. Radiologic reporting highlights anatomic variants and disease extent.

Neck Masses

Ultrasound and CT evaluate superficial neck masses and lymph nodes. MRI provides soft tissue contrast for deep lesions and perineural spread. Imaging guides biopsy and oncologic management.

Skull Lateral
4
Feb

Overview

The lateral skull radiograph profiles the cranial vault and facial bones to assess fractures and soft tissue calcifications. The patient is positioned true lateral with the orbitomeatal line parallel to the detector. This view complements AP imaging for comprehensive skull assessment.

Technique

Position the head in true lateral and center the detector to include the entire skull from the frontal sinus to the occiput. Use appropriate exposure and immobilize the head to minimize motion. Collimate to the skull to reduce dose.

Clinical Indications

Lateral skull is indicated for trauma suspected fracture and evaluation of sinus disease or calcifications. CT is preferred for detailed assessment of fractures and intracranial pathology. Radiographs may be used for screening or when CT is not available.

Image Assessment

Evaluate cranial vault contour suture lines and paranasal sinus aeration. Inspect for depressed fractures and soft tissue emphysema. Recommend CT for definitive assessment of suspected intracranial injury.

Sinus Waters
4
Feb

Overview

The Waters projection images the maxillary sinuses and anterior ethmoid air cells with the chin elevated. It is useful for detecting sinusitis fluid levels and facial fractures. Proper head extension optimizes sinus visualization.

Technique

Position the patient with the chin extended so the orbitomeatal line forms a 37 degree angle to the detector. Center the detector to the maxillary sinuses and use appropriate exposure. Immobilize the head to reduce motion artifact.

Clinical Indications

Waters sinus view is indicated for sinusitis facial trauma and suspected maxillary sinus disease. It helps detect air fluid levels and mucosal thickening. CT is preferred for detailed sinus and orbital assessment when needed.

Image Assessment

Evaluate maxillary sinus aeration fluid levels and bony integrity. Inspect for orbital floor fractures and foreign bodies. Recommend CT for complex disease or surgical planning.