- 2 Wisconsin Locations
A CT or CAT scan is a shortened name for computerized tomography. A CT scan takes pictures of the inside of the body. The pictures are more detailed than a typical x-ray. During a CT scan of the sinuses, pictures are taken of cross sections or slices of the sinuses. The sinuses are air-filled cavities in your head. CT scans can identify problems with your sinuses and nasal passages.
The CT scan does not hurt. Our office staff will explain the CT scan to you before you start. Ask questions if you don’t understand. Before the study you/your child will need to remove glasses, earrings, hearing aids and dental appliances.
The CT scanner is located in our office. You will be asked to sit in a chair in the scanner and to position your head in a certain manner. Foam pieces may be used to help position your head for the scan. The technologist will give you instructions during the test. While you hold still the scanner will circle around your head while pictures are taken. It is important to remain still while the images are taken.
A CT scan of the sinuses takes about 10 minutes. The actual test will take about 2 minutes.