CT Sinus Scan

Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT or CAT) of your sinuses. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed pictures of the body. A CT of the sinus can help your physician to assess any injury, infection, or other abnormalities. Cedars-Sinai's S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of specialists, led by Barry D. Pressman, MD, Chief of Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Radiology, who focus on these types of scans.

Before Arriving for Your Procedure

Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their referring physician prior to starting the exam.

If your exam includes a contrast dye, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything four hours prior to your exam. Not all scans use a contrast dye; in those that do, it is given through an injection. The dye improves the image quality by highlighting certain structures, such as arteries, and making them more visible on the scan.

Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing. Because this is a scan of the head, anything like dentures, false teeth or implants, earrings, or hairpins can interfere with the scan and should be left at home.

Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine, or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.

After Arriving

A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.

If you are receiving contrast, a nurse or technologist will insert a small IV in your arm.

You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.

During Your Procedure

While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.

If contrast dye is being used, it will be injected through your IV.

During the injection you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.

If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face you should notify the technologist immediately.

This scan is done in two parts. In the first, you will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides. Your head will be placed in a holder and you will be asked to hold very still.

The table you are on will slide into the scanner. Only your head will be covered by the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.

The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.

After the first set of images are taken, you will be repositioned with on your stomach with your head resting on your chin. A second set of images will be taken.

This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

After Your Procedure

There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.

If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink plenty of liquid to help flush it out of your system.

Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.

Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.

Parking and Valet Information at the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center

We are pleased to announce that we now offer valet parking for imaging patients only. Valet service is available directly in front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center. The price is $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

If you wish to self-park, you may park in lot P4. The imaging center has a FREE dedicated shuttle service which runs every few minutes and will bring patients directly to the front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, and return them to Lot4. Parking in lot P4 or any other Cedars-Sinai lot costs $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

Please Note: We do not validate for parking lots in the Medical Office Towers located at 8631 and 8635 W. 3rd Street.