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Maxillofacial CT & Sinus CT- Benefits and Risks

Benefits

  • Maxillofacial CT and Sinus CT imaging is a convenient and noninvasive way of evaluating head trauma or other problems in the face, head or sinus.
  • The exam takes little time, causes no pain, and does not require injection of contrast material.
  • No radiation remains in a patient's body after a maxillofacial CT or sinus CT.
  • X-rays used in standard maxillofacial CT and sinus CT have no immediate side effects.
  • A CT exam of the face and head will increase the chance of recovery.

Risks

  • There is always a slight chance of cancer from excessive exposure to radiation. However, the benefit of an accurate diagnosis will generally outweigh the risk.
  • The effective radiation dose for this procedure varies.
  • Women should always inform their radiologist or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
  • CT imaging is, in general, not recommended for pregnant women unless medically necessary because of potential risk to the baby.

Watch the CT - What to Expect Video.