Learning CT Scan – Learn how to perform a CT Sinus exam – some of these instructions may vary depending on the equipment you are working on.
Learning CT Scan – Performing a Sinus CT Exam
Learning CT Scan – Sinus CT images are screen shots from the Virtual CT Trainer Software causing some degrading in the image quality.
Sinus
Exam Prep:
- When scanning the sinus, attach the head unit and position the patient supine and head first in the scanner.
- Sinus CT is done without any contrast unless specified by the provider, one reason for contrast for a sinus CT would be to look at a mass in the sinuses.
Learning CT Scan – Positioning the Patient:
- Move the patient into the scanner until the positioning light is at the level of the chin.
- Adjust the table height until the horizontal light is in front of the EAM as seen below.
- Turn off the positioning light
Positioning the Patient for a Sinus CT on Older Scanners
When scanning the sinus using an older scanner, you may be required to scan the patient in the prone position with the chin extended (this position acquires coronal images of the sinuses) – see the image below. You will also need scan the patient in the supine position – as seen above (this position acquires axial images of the sinuses).
NOTE: This is not required on newer scanners as the scanner can do quality reformats, saving exposure to the patient – (When using a modern scanner, the patient is done in the supine position and the original images are reformatted into coronal and sagittal images).
Learning CT Scan – Scanning Scout Images:
- When the patient is positioned in the CT gantry – Press the confirm button
- Prep the scanner (Scan button will be solid or a flashing light – depends on manufacture)
- Scan your AP & Lateral scout images – Some manufacturers will require the patient to move back into the gantry to scan the second scout and some will move the patient back into the scanner as it acquires the second scout.
Adjusting Your Lines or Box to Cover Desired Anatomy:
- Adjust the lines or box to cover the sinus anatomy to be scanned (lines or box depends on CT manufacture).
- When scanning the sinuses, go from the upper teeth through the frontal sinus.
- When the lines or box are positioned over the desired anatomy, press the confirm button.
Learning CT Scan – Scanning the Patient:
- Scan the sinus without contrast unless a mass is suspected. If contrast is needed for a mass, set the injector rate at 2 ml/sec with a delay of 60 seconds (talk to your radiologist of your lead for the proper delay time for your facility).
- When you have your scan area covering the needed anatomy from upper teeth through the frontal sinus press the scan button to start the scan.
Completing the Exam:
- Look through your images to verify you have all of the anatomy that is needed. Help the patient off of the scanner table.
Virtual CT Trainer Software – Learn More
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