The Paranasal Sinus CT scan evaluates the maxillary, ethmoidal, frontal and sphenoidal sinuses and is the reference examination for the study of sinusitis and for surgical planning (endoscopic nasal surgery).
What is a Paranasal Sinus CT scan and what is it for?
The Paranasal Sinus CT scan is a thin-slice computed tomography examination that characterises the mucosa, drainage ostia and nasal bony anatomy.
It is considered the standard exam for pre-operative anatomical mapping and for the assessment of chronic paranasal sinus disease.
How much does a Paranasal Sinus CT scan cost?
The price of a Paranasal Sinus CT scan when performed on a private basis is €120.
However, you can have a Paranasal Sinus CT scan through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When a Paranasal Sinus CT scan is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (it is necessary to bring the Health Centre prescription);
- ADSE: If the Paranasal Sinus CT scan is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of €16;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers. In this case, the price of the Paranasal Sinus CT scan varies depending on the insurance you use.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans. In this case, the price of the Paranasal Sinus CT scan varies depending on the health plan you use.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. In the case of a Paranasal Sinus CT scan, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
The Paranasal Sinus CT scan is performed with the patient lying on the scanner table (open at both ends), with rapid acquisition and thin, high-resolution slices.
It generally does not require contrast; in selected scenarios (orbital/meningeal complications, tumour), intravenous contrast may be used.
The exam takes 5 to 10 minutes.
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
The Paranasal Sinus CT scan is an exam that can detect inflammatory and anatomical changes, such as:
- Acute and chronic sinusitis and mucosal thickening;
- Nasal polyps and polypoid disease;
- Anatomical variations with an impact on drainage (e.g. concha bullosa, septal deviations);
- Orbital or bony complications of infections;
- Expansile lesions and tumours;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
The Paranasal Sinus CT scan is generally requested by the doctor in situations such as:
- Rhinitis and sinusitis that are recurrent or refractory to treatment;
- Planning of endoscopic nasosinusal surgery;
- Suspected orbital/bony complications;
- Assessment of nasosinusal masses;
- Study of chronic facial pain and nasal obstruction;
- Among others.
Paranasal Sinus CT scan with contrast
In most cases, the Paranasal Sinus CT scan is performed without contrast. When investigating tumour or infectious complications, intravenous contrast may be administered. The injection may cause a transient sensation of warmth or a metallic taste. Fasting for 4 hours is usually required (you will be informed at the time of booking).
Preparing for a Paranasal Sinus CT scan
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | If the exam is performed with contrast, you must fast for 4 hours. When the exam is performed without contrast, fasting is not required. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam, except in cases where oral contrast will be used. In that case, you should arrive 1 to 2 hours before the exam (you will be informed at the time of booking). |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams. |
| Previous medical history | Keep in mind your previous medical history regarding allergies, cardio-respiratory and kidney diseases, and usual medication. |
| Water | If necessary or if you wish, you may drink water. |
NRD will provide you with all the necessary instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
- Please remain still during the exam;
- For neck area exams, please try to avoid swallowing during the exam;
- For head and neck exams, please remove all jewellery, hairpins, glasses, hearing aids and dentures.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the CT scan results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
The Paranasal Sinus CT scan can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)