CT Maxillofacial without contrast
About Test
CT (Computed Tomography) scan is an imaging modality that uses a series of X-rays taken from different angles and a computer to create cross-sectional images of internal body organs, bones, and soft tissues. The maxillofacial region includes the structures present in your face, mouth, or jaw. Your face is composed of multiple bones, including the orbit, maxilla and mandible, nose and nasal cavities, teeth and muscles, and many blood vessels, glands, and nerves. A CT scan maxillofacial is used to visualize these structures for the presence of masses, inflammations, blood vessel problems, etc.
A contrast material is often used to enhance image quality, but it is not used in CT scans without contrast.
Why and when do you need this test?
Your doctor may advise this test if you have signs and symptoms related to the structures present in these areas. Or if he finds any abnormality on physical examination or other investigations.
Some of the indications for performing a maxillofacial CT scan include the following;
- Trauma to the face, orbit, jaw, or mouth
- Trauma, Infection, or mass in the nose or sinuses
- Problems with the smell: Anosmia/ dysosmia
- Sensory (trigeminal neuralgia) or motor problems related to the face
- Symptoms of Salivary gland infection, stones, or tumors
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Suspected tumor/cancer
Do you need to prepare for the test?
- You can drink or normally eat unless advised by your doctor otherwise.
- Take advice from your doctor about your daily medications.
What can you expect?
- You will be asked to lie down on the table that will slide into the CT scan machine that looks like a large donut with a tunnel.
- You need to lie down still and not move to prevent the images from getting blurry.
- You will be alone in the room but under the constant care of a technician across the glass window who will be talking to you.
- It is a painless procedure that lasts for about 15-30 minutes but may take longer.
Are there any risks to this test?
It is a non-invasive test that uses low doses of X-rays that poses no risks unless you are pregnant. The radiation can harm the developing fetus. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or have kidney disease.
What do the test results mean?
A radiologist who is an expert in interpreting MRI results will send a signed report to your doctor. Your doctor could tell you if the report shows any abnormality that may be causing your symptoms.
Some of the abnormal results may include;
- Fractures of the orbit and other facial bones
- Orbital mass/ tumor/ cancer
- Infections in the soft tissues or bones of the orbit
- Deviated nasal septum
- Sinonasal obstruction/ mass/ polyp
- Wegener’s granulomatosis
- Oral (mouth) cancer
- Osteonecrosis of the Jaw
- Parotid gland infection, stone, or tumor
- Mandibular gland infection, stone, or tumor
- Lymphadenopathy
Related Tests:
Other related tests may include:
- MRI scan orbit-face-neck
- X-ray of the sinuses
See Physicians Online
Conditions Treated
Sarwat Makkani, MD
