Ear CT is a specialised imaging exam that allows a very detailed assessment of the structures of the outer, middle and inner ear. It is an essential technique for the diagnosis of otological diseases (affecting the ear), congenital malformations and infectious complications, providing high-resolution images with very thin slices.
What is Ear CT and what is it for?
Ear CT is a computed tomography scan focused on the analysis of the ear canal, middle ear (eardrum, ossicles) and inner ear (labyrinth and cochlea). It is also used to study the mastoid, a bony structure located behind the ear.
Ear CT is the examination of choice to assess bony changes of the ear and the mastoid, and it often complements ear MRI when it is necessary to study soft tissues.
How much does Ear CT cost?
The price of Ear CT when performed on a private basis is €120.
However, you can have Ear CT through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When Ear CT is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the Health Centre prescription);
- ADSE: If Ear CT 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 Ear CT 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 Ear CT 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. For Ear CT, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
Ear CT is performed with the patient lying on a table that slides into the scanner (which is open at both ends). High-resolution images are acquired, usually in very thin slices, allowing three-dimensional reconstructions of the anatomy of the ear and mastoid. The exam is quick, with an average duration of 5 to 15 minutes, and it is painless.
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?
Ear CT is an exam that can detect multiple changes of the ear and mastoid, such as:
- Chronic otitis media and its complications;
- Cholesteatoma (middle-ear lesion that can destroy the ossicles);
- Congenital malformations of the inner or middle ear;
- Changes in the ossicular chain (malleus, incus, stapes);
- Mastoid disease, including mastoiditis;
- Fractures of the temporal bone after head trauma;
- Causes of conductive or sensorineural hearing loss;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Ear CT is generally requested by the physician in situations such as:
- Investigation of persistent or progressive hearing loss;
- Study of chronic otitis media with suspected complications;
- Diagnosis of cholesteatoma or suspected bone destruction;
- Assessment of congenital malformations of the ear in children and adults;
- Study of temporal bone fractures after trauma;
- Surgical planning in otologic surgery, including middle-ear surgery or cochlear implants;
- Among others.
Ear CT with Contrast
Ear CT is usually performed without contrast, as the main objective is to assess the bony structures of the temporal region.
However, in some specific cases, such as suspected intracranial infections, tumours or severe inflammatory complications, iodinated contrast may be administered intravenously to complement the study. In these cases, fasting for 4 hours is usually required (you will be informed at the time of booking).
It is essential to inform the team about any known allergies (to medicines, food, etc.), asthma, allergic rhinitis or previous reactions to contrast agents, as these conditions may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Preparing for Ear CT
| 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
- Remain still to avoid artefacts on the images;
- Remove jewellery, hair clips, glasses, hearing aids and dentures during the exam.
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?
Ear CT can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)