Evaluation of Paranasal Sinus Lesions through Plain X-rays and CT-Scan - A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Introduction: X-ray PNS is the primary investigation for paranasal sinus lesions, but many times it is not sufficient to arriveat final diagnosis. Also plain radiographs do not provide information for pre-operative surgical planning. CT scan can become a useful diagnostic modality in the evaluation of PNS and an integral part of surgical planning. It can also be used to create Intra-operative road maps. Material and methods: The study comprised of 78 patients who presented to department of radiology, Dhiraj general hospital for evaluation of paranasal sinuses and were evaluated with plain X rays and CT scan of PNS. Results: Maxillary sinus (96.3%) was most commonly affected in inflammatory conditions with blocked OMC in 48% cases whereas frontal sinus was affected in cases of Osteoma. All the cases of malignancy involved maxillary sinus with most frequent intraorbital (70%) extension. Conclusion: CT scan of paranasal sinuses with axial and coronal reconstruction is pre-requisite for detailed evaluation of paranasal sinus lesions with lesion characterization and its extent best evaluated with CT scan which also provides roadmap for sinus surgeries.