Anderson Reporter

Sinus clinics are increasingly choosing CT scans for diagnostic imaging for the technology's numerous advantages over traditional X-rays.

CT scanning technology has been proven to be cheaper, more convenient and more accurate than X-rays for diagnosing sinus problems, including chronic sinusitis.

"In-office CT, or computer tomography, is offered as a convenient alternative to image the sinuses for diagnosis," Indianapolis Sinus Center's Dr. Anthony Sanders told Anderson Reporter. "It is performed in our office and is more convenient than (having) to schedule and visit a hospital or radiology center. In addition, it has the advantage of being 1/10 radiation dose of more standard CTs, and it tends to be less expensive than the hospital equivalent. The exam is done sitting in a chair and takes about 20 seconds to do and is completely painless."

Sinus problems such as chronic sinusitis can lead to headaches, congestion, facial pain, earaches and other symptoms.

"Sinusitis occurs when the linings of your nose, sinuses and throat become inflamed, possibly from a preexisting cold or allergies," Sanders said. "Chronic sinusitis is when this inflammation lasts three months or more. We offer on-site diagnostic testing, including low-dose CT scan, to get a better look inside your sinus cavity and identify inflammation and signs of infection."

A study published in the Academy of Emergency Medicine found that traditional sinus X-rays may not be as reliable as sinus CT scans for diagnosing acute sinusitis.

"Sinus X-rays are less sensitive than sinus CT scans for demonstration of radiographic changes consistent with acute sinusitis," the study said. "Sinus plain films may not be reliable enough to assist with clinical decision making. If severity of patient illness requires diagnostic certainty, more sensitive imaging studies, such as CT scans of the sinuses, should be considered.

Doctors at the University of Kansas School of Medicine reported that regular X-rays have a limited role in the management of sinusitis and that non-contract CT images can define the nasal anatomy much more precisely. 

Sinusitis accounts for approximately 25 million doctor visits every year, costing more than $2 billion annually in direct medical expenses, according to Vital Health Statistics reports.