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Sinuses
Sinuses

Sinuses X-ray
Definition:
An X-ray examination which images the air-filled cavities in the frontal bones on the skull that are lined with a mucous membrane.

X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation (like light); they are of higher energy, however, and can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray.

Alternative Names:
Paranasal sinus radiography; X-ray - sinuses

How the test is performed:
The test is performed in a hospital radiology department or in the health care provider's office by an X-ray technician. You will be asked to sit in a chair so that any fluids in the sinus may be easily seen on the pictures. Your head may be placed in different positions as the pictures are taken.
How to prepare for the test:
Inform the health care provider if you are pregnant. Remove all jewelry.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:
There is no discomfort from the X-ray.
Why the test is performed:
This test is performed when symptoms of sinusitis or other sinus disorders are present.
What abnormal results mean:
The X-ray may detect tumors, obstruction, infection, and bleeding.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
What the risks are:
There is low radiation exposure. X-rays are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure needed to produce the image. Most experts feel that the risk is low compared with the benefits. Pregnant women and children are more sensitive to the risks of the X-ray.
Special considerations:

A CT scan of the sinuses is preferred over plain films due to it's superior cross-sectional imaging capability and the opportunity to identify other possible causes for the presenting symptoms.
Review Date: 12/6/2001
Reviewed By: Evan Mair, M.D., Department of Radiology, Boston Medical Center, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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