In-Office CT Imaging

CT imaging allows providers to have a more in-depth look at your sinuses to determine the cause of blockages. If you suffer from chronic sinusitis, hearing loss, or ear infections, your ENT may order a CT scan of the sinuses or temporal bones to visualize the area and obtain the information necessary to create a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.

Find your ENT Request Appointment

This diagnostic test is a CT scan of the sinuses and the internal auditory canal (IAC). “CT” stands for computed tomography, a specific type of x-ray used to examine the sinuses or the internal auditory canal inside the ear. It involves creating detailed pictures of your sinuses and IAC so that your ENT doctor can diagnose several ENT conditions. It’s safe, non-invasive, and allows your physician to investigate your symptoms.

The CT Scan Experience

When you arrive at the office for your CT scan, you will need to remove your glasses, earrings, hearing aids, and/or any dental appliances. You will then lie down on a table with your head inside the CT scanner.

While you lie still, the machine will move around your head and capture images. The actual test takes about five minutes, and your appointment should last no longer than 20 minutes.

What Can a Sinus CT Scan Reveal?

A CT scan of your sinuses and IAC can reveal a great deal about your health. These detailed images allow your ENT to look for evidence of:

Chronic sinus disease
Acoustic neuroma
Nasal polyps
Deviated septum
Swollen turbinates
Sinus bone infection
Masses, tumors, and cancer

The Benefits of In-Office CT Scans

SFENTA is proud to feature MiniCAT™ in-office CT scanners. Our innovative scanners are associated with many benefits when compared to traditional CT scanners, including:

A quick, 20-second scan
Appointment takes just five minutes

Lowest dose of radiation available
No risk of claustrophobia

About SFENTA

SFENTA is South Florida’s premier provider of ENT care, offering patients comprehensive treatments designed to help them find lasting relief.

What sets SFENTA apart from other ENT providers is:

Patient-Centered Care

When you visit one of our providers, nothing about your visit will be cookie-cutter. Instead, you’ll receive care that is designed to fit your specific needs and symptoms.

Continuity of Care

We believe that care is complete when all of your symptoms have been addressed and you have found continued relief.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

We’ve created a provider network with over 50 highly-trained physicians to help ensure we’re able to take on any ENT concern.

The Security of a Community Staple

With over 30 locations across the area, you can rest easy knowing our staff is always close by.

When is a CT Scan of the Temporal Bones Necessary?

The temporal bones are located on the sides and base of the skull. A CT scan of these structures may be ordered to:

Evaluate patients with hearing loss
Identify the cause of chronic ear infections
Diagnose middle and inner ear diseases

When is a CT Scan of the Sinuses Necessary?

A CT scan of the sinuses is often recommended for patients suffering from chronic sinusitis symptoms. This imaging test can help your doctor:

Identify the cause of your sinus and nasal symptoms
Look for problems and diseases affecting the sinuses
Plan for endoscopic sinus surgery

Your Complete CT Scan Experience

Upon your arrival, your technician will take you to a private treatment room where you will sit upright in a chair.

Your technician will place a lead apron onto your body to protect you. They will ask you to remove any earrings, jewelry, and/or hearing aids. Your head will then be positioned inside the scanner.

The MiniCAT scanner is an open device, so there’s no risk of claustrophobia, which is common during traditional CT scans. Once the machine is turned on, the scan takes just 20 seconds and uses the lowest radiation dose possible. Your entire appointment will last about five minutes, at which point you will be free to return to work and resume your regular daily routine.

FAQ

What is the internal auditory canal?

Also known as the “internal acoustic canal”, the internal auditory canal (IAC) is a bony passage within the petrous section of the temporal bone. It’s responsible for transmitting nerves and vessels to the auditory and vestibular apparatus.

Why do I need a CT scan of the IAC?

When acoustic neuromas expand, they fill the opening of the internal auditory canal. This compresses the cochlea and facial nerve, resulting in hearing loss and facial weakness. A CT scan of the area can quickly diagnose this issue so treatment can begin.