CT PNS: Purpose, Indication, Views & Cost [2026]

CT PNS is a CT scan of paranasal sinus cavities. CT scan is also known as Computerized tomography. It uses special x-ray equipment that provides detailed and accurate results.

It is a non-invasive reliable imaging technique to detect an obstruction or inflammation in the sinus.

If a patient has a history of constant sinus infections, persistent nasal obstruction, facial pain or pressure, and headaches, a CT PNS scan is typically recommended. A CT PNS scan helps in the detection of sinusitis, nasal polyps, chronic inflammation, and other structural changes of the nose and sinuses. This scan helps visualize the paranasal sinus region in more detail. Specialists also use this scan in preoperative planning to have a clearer idea of the sinus anatomy. This evaluation takes no more than 10-20 minutes, is non-invasive, and poses no risk to the patient. Better definition of certain areas may require the use of contrast dye, which is used only in select cases. Patients need to remain still during the entire procedure, which makes it effortless and convenient. The availability of reports the next day on average enables prompt initiation of therapy. With modern CT equipment and skilled radiologists, diagnostic centers offer dependable CT PNS scans at reasonable rates, facilitating proper evaluation and prompt treatment.

What is paranasal sinus?

The group of air-filled spaces around the nasal cavity is called paranasal sinuses. There are four pair of paranasal sinuses –

1. Maxillary sinuses -These are located under the eyes
2. Frontal sinuses – These are located above the eyes
3. Ethmoidal sinuses – These are located between the eyes
4. Sphenoidal sinuses– These are located behind the eyes

The paranasal sinuses contribute to the overall wellbeing of the nasal passages. Besides helping with voice modulation, they aid in humidifying and filtering the air, and reducing the weight of the skull. Sinus blockage or inflammation can be caused by an infection, allergies, or structural problems. Sinus blockage or inflammation can also cause headaches, sinusitis, or facial pain. To evaluate these sinus cavities, a CT PNS scan is generally recommended by the physician. Identifying the reason behind the discomfort and planning treatment is done by the images that show the scan.

Purpose of CT PNS 

The purpose of the CT PNS test is to detect abnormalities. Some of the common issues are:

• Inflammation
• Tumour
• Fluid accumulation in the space
• Fracture
• Lining
• Increase in tissue thickness
• Trauma or injury

Types of CT Scan PNS

NCCT PNS or CT Scan PNS

It is done in routine cases where simple abnormalities are to be detected. It uses low radiation and resolution. Hence it used to see even the slightest change in the vessels. 

CECT PNS

CT PNS with contrast, though it is not common, a contrast dye is given to the patient before the CT scan. It enhances the contrast of the images. This is helpful in better diagnosis.

HRCT PNS

High resolution CT PNS uses high radiation and software to capture images in better resolution.

Different Views in CT PNS

Coronal View – Front and back part of the sinus cavity.

Axial View- Top and below/bottom part of the sinus cavity.

Saggital View – Sinus cavity sideways from the right and left side

CT Scan PNS with neck – It is done to access the sinus cavity along with the throat.

CT PNS Indications

A doctor often recommends this test to identify sinusitis. Due to infection, the paranasal sinus may get filled with fluid. This can cause difficulty in breathing, sleeping, blocked nose, and speech alteration. 

CT PNS is indicated to diagnose the following –

• Inflammation
• To get a clear picture of the boundary and surrounding of the nose for treatment
• As a guide for surgical procedures
• To identify any defect or mass in the sinus 
• Tumour (abnormal growth)
• Detect any fracture in the nasal part
• Presence of inflammatory disease

CT PNS is the most commonly used imaging technique in the field of otolaryngology. The test has been into use to detect and study the abnormalities in paranasal sinuses.

Procedure

CT scan works with several x-ray beams and electronic x-ray detectors rotating around the patient. A special computer is used to generate two-dimensional cross-sectional images of the body.

• Your healthcare provider will ask you to lie on the back or face down with an elevated chin.
• The technician will make sure to hold the patient still in a certain position during the procedure.
• In certain patients, a contrast material is injected to make the tissues and blood vessels look clear. The contrast material is injected through the veins.
• The table then slides slowly through the machine while the scanning procedure is performed.
• You might be asked to hold your breath as any movement can affect the quality of an image.
• The machine rotates around the individual’s face part in a spiral motion.
• The entire procedure is completed within 10 minutes.

Preparation for CT PNS

• Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
• Remove all the metal objects from your body as they may affect the CT images.
• If CT PNS requires contrast material, your healthcare provider may ask you not to eat or drink anything a few hours before the test.
• Inform your healthcare provider about any medication and allergies. 
• Any recent illness or other medical conditions might increase the chances of side effects.
• Women must inform their healthcare technicians of any chances of pregnancy.

Risk and Benefits

CT PNS Risk

• Excessive exposure to radiation increases the chances of cancer but the benefits outweigh the risk involved.
• The test is generally not recommended in pregnant women unless it is necessary.
• If contrast material is administered intravenously then mothers should avoid feeding babies for 24-48 hours.
• There may occur allergic reaction against contrast material that contains iodine. Though the reaction is very rare.

Benefits

• The scan is the safe and reliable imaging technique to study any obstruction or inflammation in the sinus.
• It is beneficial for doctors to plan the safest and effective surgery.
• It is painless, accurate, and non-invasive.
• Good to get the image of bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels at the same time.
• The test is quick and simple. In emergency cases, it reveals internal injuries.
• It is less sensitive to movement when compared to MRI.
• It can be performed with implanted medical device of any kind.

What are the symptoms of paranasal sinus disease?

Paranasal sinus disease can cause:

• Blocked or stuffy nose
  
• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
  
• Pain or pressure on the face (forehead, cheeks, around eyes)
  
• Frequent headaches
  
• Reduced or no sense of smell
  
• Cough, especially at night
  
• Bad breath
  
• Feeling of pressure or pain in the ears
  
• Fever and tiredness in severe cases
  

These symptoms may last for days or even weeks. If they continue, a doctor may suggest a CT PNS scan to find the exact cause.

Result and interpretation

CT PNS provides an insight into the state of our paranasal sinuses and helps prepare a treatment plan which showcases: 

Healthy Sinuses: The sinuses are clear without any signs of an infection or an obstruction.

Sinus Infection (Sinusitis): We might observe a thickened sinus lining, mucus, or other fluid deposits.

Nasal Polyps: Polyps or small growths passing through the nasal passages can be identified.

Structural Problems: Narrowed sinus passageways or a deviated septum can be identified.

Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Provides a detailed evaluation to aid in the planning of surgeries. 

Treatment Planning: The results give an outline of the required medication, outpatient procedures, or even surgeries. 

Rapidity in Reporting: Most institutions deliver results in under 24 hours. 

Proper Diagnosis: The images make it easy to provide treatment to patients suffering from chronic and recurring infections. 

All these aspects help a doctor in assessing a patient properly and alleviating the symptoms quickly.

If sinuses appear black in color it indicates the presence of air. Given below is the normal CT PNS scan.

Abnormal images appear grey in colour. It indicates inflammation of the tissues.

CT PNS Cost in India

The cost of CT PNS ranges from 1000 to 7000 INR on average. However, the variation in cost depends upon the city and the laboratory where the procedure is done.

City	Test Price
Delhi	Rs 1000 to Rs 3000
Gurgaon	Rs 3000 to Rs 4000
Mumbai	Rs 2000 to Rs 3000
Hyderabad	Rs 1500 to Rs 2000
Bangalore	Rs 1300 to Rs 2500

We have tried to cover all the important aspect of a CT PNS. In case you may have any query, write to us in the comment section below and we will try to answer your query.

Conclusion

A CT PNS (paranasal sinuses) scan is a very efficient and brief method of determining sinus infections, blockages, or trauma. Just before making a reservation, it would be good to check out the various CT PNS rates at the different centres around and figure out your finances. The prices differ depending on the city, the type of scan, and whether you go to a hospital or a diagnostic centre. It is important to know exactly what the money is paying for, the doctor who reads the scan, contrasts, and reports delivery. Please abide by any preparation instructions and inform the staff if you are allergic or pregnant. Being very clear about the costs and choosing a centre that you trust will definitely lessen your worries. BookmeriLab is at your service if you want to compare prices and schedule a CT PNS appointment at a centre that you trust in no time.

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