A Face CT scan assesses the facial bones, orbital cavities, nasal fossae and adjacent structures and is useful in facial trauma, infections and orbital disease.
What is a Face CT scan and what is it for?
A Face CT scan is a computed tomography examination that generates detailed images of the facial bones, orbits, nasal fossae and maxillofacial region.
It is frequently recommended as the first-line exam in facial trauma and for surgical planning.
How much does a Face CT scan cost?
The price of a Face CT scan when performed on a private basis is €120.
However, you can have a Face CT scan through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When a Face 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 Face 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 Face 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 Face 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 Face CT scan, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
The Face CT scan is performed with the patient lying on the scanner table (open at both ends), acquiring thin slices and multiplanar/3D reconstructions.
In certain indications (tumours, complicated infections), intravenous contrast may be used.
The exam takes around 10 to 15 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?
A Face CT scan can detect several bone and soft-tissue changes, such as:
- Fractures of the facial bones and orbits;
- Complicated sinusitis and orbital involvement;
- Orbital lesions, masses and extraocular muscle abnormalities;
- Bone and soft-tissue tumours;
- Dentoalveolar and maxillofacial abnormalities;
- Infectious complications and abscesses;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
A Face CT scan is generally requested by the doctor in situations such as:
- Facial trauma with suspected fractures;
- Persistent facial pain, swelling or deformity;
- Assessment of recurrent/complicated sinusitis and orbital pathology;
- Planning maxillofacial/ENT surgery;
- Assessment of facial tumours and masses;
- Post-operative follow-up and monitoring;
- Among others.
Face CT scan with contrast
A Face CT scan is usually performed without contrast, except when investigating tumour, complicated infection or orbital involvement, in which cases intravenous contrast helps to differentiate tissues. 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 Face 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 Face 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)