Computed tomography for examination of the larynx. When is computed tomography used for the nose and sinuses? What is looked at by CT of the nasopharynx

The date: 29.06.2020

Computed tomography of the sinuses is one of the most informative diagnostic methods used in otorhinolaryngology.

Examination using CT provides information on morphological changes in tissues, structural disorders, injuries and neoplasms in the nasal cavity. High accuracy of the survey is achieved by exposure to the nasopharynx of x-rays, which form a three-dimensional image of the nasal cavity.

Computed tomography of the sinuses is a high-precision method for diagnosing diseases and injuries of the nasopharynx and sinuses. The pictures obtained during the procedure make it possible to establish and differentiate the diagnosis, serve as the basis for the appointment of effective therapy.

High information content and super-accuracy compensate for the only drawback of CT - X-ray irradiation, the dose of which is lower than that of X-rays.

Depending on the method of the procedure, CT of the nasal cavity is divided into types. The main types include:

Standard CT without contrast.
CT of the nasal cavity with contrast. In this case, the patient is injected with a contrast agent containing iodine, which better shows the soft and bone tissues, cartilaginous joints of the cavity. Basically, contrast is used to increase the information content of the procedure, as well as in cases where there are suspicions of a tumor.
MSCs of the nasopharynx. Multislice computed tomography is also performed using X-ray irradiation, as is CT, but it is a more effective diagnostic method.

MSCT of the paranasal sinuses allows you to get up to 300 images per turn of the apparatus (whereas CT takes from 1 to 10 images). The image quality with MSCT is higher than with standard computed tomography.

The main indications for the appointment of CT

Diagnosis of the nasopharynx using computed tomography is prescribed for diagnosis, before and after the therapy used. The main reasons for the appointment of the procedure are:

inaccuracy of images obtained on radiography;
chronic inflammatory processes of the nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses;
the presence of dacryocystitis - inflammation in the lacrimal sacs, which also affects the lacrimal ducts;
previous injuries, especially those accompanied by a curvature of the septum;
the presence of neoplasms (polyps, malignant and benign tumors, cysts, etc.);
abnormal structure of the skull, affecting the state of the nasopharynx;
the presence of foreign objects in the nasal cavity;
transferred infectious diseases;
transfer of diseases such as rhinitis, sinusitis, liquorrhea.

Computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses is also indicated for headaches (especially when tilting the head), pain in the eyes. Similar symptoms may indicate inflammatory processes in the maxillary sinuses (for example, with sinusitis). Also, the procedure is prescribed before surgery to assess the structure and condition of the nasal cavity.

In the presence of tumor-like neoplasms, CT of the nasal cavity will determine the etiology of tumors - are they benign or malignant. Such a study also helps to differentiate the nature of polyps, to identify the cause of their occurrence in the paranasal sinuses or nasopharynx.

Key advantages of the method

Diagnosis of the nasal cavity using CT has significant advantages. These include:

Cyst (white spot on left) in sinus x-ray

high information content and quality of images (diagnosis is carried out using a high-resolution 3-D image);
low radiation exposure in the diagnosis of the nasopharynx in comparison with x-rays;
speed of scanning and minimum time for research (the procedure takes from several minutes to half an hour);
painlessness and a minimum list of contraindications.

The main contraindications for use

In some cases, the diagnosis of the paranasal sinuses using computed tomography is not carried out. The list of contraindications is minimal, as the procedure is safe and painless. The main contraindications for the examination include:

pregnancy (especially the first trimester);
lactation period - a relative contraindication (it is forbidden to breastfeed within 24 hours after passing the examination);
overweight (from 180 kg and above), since the device has a restrictive limit;
allergic reactions to the contrast agent;
age up to 7 years (the procedure is prescribed only for health reasons).

Diagnosis of the nasopharynx using computed tomography can be prohibited in the presence of diabetes mellitus, melanoma, as well as pathologies of the thyroid gland, kidneys, liver, etc.

The specifics of the CT scan of the nasal cavity

Patients who are scheduled for examination of the maxillary sinuses and the nasopharynx in general should be prepared for CT. Preparation involves collecting data from the patient about the presence of existing diseases, medication, etc.

In addition, the radiologist may ask you to remove metal objects (jewelry, watches, removable dentures, etc.). If the examination of the maxillary sinuses occurs with the use of contrast, then the substance is administered intravenously 30-45 minutes before the procedure.

The procedure algorithm is as follows:

The patient is placed on the couch of the tomograph (on the back or face down). At the same time, the chin should protrude forward so that the x-ray tubes better scan the nasal cavity.
The patient is immobilized - this can be done with special rollers and belts. During the entire examination, it is required to remain calm in order to exclude inaccurate images.
The patient is sent to the tomograph capsule through the portal, where the detectors and X-ray tubes rotate. With their help, slices are created, which are converted into a three-dimensional image.

Modern equipment allows you to make a survey quickly - the duration can be from several minutes to half an hour.

Display of sinuses during MRI (video)

MRI of the nasal cavity as an alternative to CT

In some cases, computed tomography is not possible. In such situations, an MRI of the paranasal sinuses is prescribed. Magnetic resonance imaging makes it possible to establish a diagnosis with higher accuracy due to the increased information content of the image.

When conducting an MRI of the nose, a magnetic field is used, which shows the structure of the nasopharynx, the morphological structure of tissues and neoplasms in the cavity.

MRI of the paranasal sinuses is a safer diagnostic method because the patient is not irradiated with x-rays. Therefore, such a procedure can be performed by people with melanoma, women during menstruation or pregnancy.

The main contraindication to MRI of the paranasal sinuses is the presence of metal implants in the patient (pacemakers, endoprostheses, hearing aids in the middle ear, etc.). This is because the magnetic field can damage the implant. If the examination is carried out using computed tomography, then there are no such contraindications.

Infectious lesions of the nasal sinuses are a common occurrence for the winter and spring seasons. Many people deliberately ignore the disease and do not rush to see a doctor. This can lead to a serious illness: pus and dead epithelial cells accumulate in the maxillary sinuses, breathing is disturbed, and the temperature rises.

The preliminary diagnosis sounds like "sinusitis", and the patient needs to be examined in order to clearly establish the localization and extent of the process. CT scan of the sinuses and x-rays are two universal methods that allow you to consider all pathologies of the nasopharynx as widely as possible. The procedure is recommended to be done only once. The tomogram is done in two projections.

What is a CT scan of the paranasal sinuses?

CT scan of the paranasal sinuses is a diagnostic procedure that is a process of layer-by-layer imaging of the human body. X-ray radiation is conducted through the body, the intensity of the response to which is also recorded by special devices. The tomograph with the help of a computer converts the information into a static image that can be reflected on the media.

Significant advantages of computed tomography of the sinuses:

high informativeness and diagnostic significance;
simplicity and accuracy of research;
it is not required to artificially expand the nasal passages or puncture the sinuses;
relative safety of the survey;
short time required to complete the procedure;
minimum percentage of technical problems.

Disadvantages of computed tomography:

inability to use during pregnancy;
limitations for diagnosing pathologies in children;
high cost of the procedure;
the presence of a small amount of radiation that can adversely affect the body of a weakened person.

Indications for computed tomography of the nasopharynx and PPN

If you want to get tested as quickly as possible, contact your doctor and describe your problem to him. CT scan of the paranasal sinuses is prescribed in the following cases:

Radiation dose

The radiation dose for CT of both paranasal sinuses is less than 0.4 mSV. Such radiation does not cause significant harm to the body and does not contribute to the occurrence of oncological diseases. Traditionally, it is believed that you should not be examined more than twice in one year: this can adversely affect the body. Watching the procedure on video, you can see that it is practically safe from the point of view of X-ray exposure.

Contraindications

Computed tomography of the sinuses is prohibited in the presence of the following conditions:

If you are not sure that you do not belong to these groups of citizens, be sure to consult with your doctor. If there are contraindications to the procedure, it can be replaced by any other alternative options at the choice of the patient and his specialist. The use of CT for the paranasal sinuses with pronounced contraindications can lead to a deterioration in the patient's condition and exacerbation of existing pathologies.

The procedure of computer diagnostics of the nose and paranasal sinuses

Computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses is carried out in a separate room, which is specially designed for examination. No preliminary preparation in the form of bowel cleansing or the introduction of a contrast agent during the study is required, so you can come to the procedure at any time of the day.

In order for the device to work as correctly as possible and show an accurate result, it is recommended to get rid of metal jewelry, buttons and hairpins for the duration of the procedure. Mobile phones, tablets and other electronic devices should also be left outside the office.

A person is placed in a CT scanner, where he is given safety briefing for some time. If there is a deterioration in well-being, signs of panic or anxiety, the procedure must be stopped and the attending physician should be notified.

After passing the briefing, the patient is placed in the apparatus, where a special device takes a series of photographs in various planes. The apparatus produces some noise which may be unpleasant for the patient. It is recommended to use special earplugs to prevent pain.

What CT shows - decoding the results

After passing the examination procedure, the patient will receive the conclusion of the doctor of functional diagnostics along with the pictures. The description and interpretation of the results can only be done by a specialist with the appropriate qualifications and experience. The conclusion on the procedure usually indicates information about its course, the presence of complications, pathological processes and their dynamics.

CT of the paranasal sinuses can reveal:

After you receive the results of the examination, be sure to contact an otolaryngologist to prescribe a course of therapy or set a date for a surgical operation. It must be remembered that the CT procedure can be performed at a certain interval, which should not be less than the time prescribed by the doctor. More frequent use of diagnostics can harm health and significantly worsen well-being.

Alternative to CT

If the CT examination is not suitable for you for one reason or another, you can stop at other methods (with the consent of the attending physician) - modern medicine offers a rich choice. Options for replacing tomography of the paranasal sinuses:

radiography of the paranasal sinuses;
magnetic resonance imaging of the paranasal passages;
ultrasound examination;
multislice computed tomography.

Comparative characteristics of various research methods:

Method	Radiography	Magnetic resonance imaging	Ultrasound procedure	CT scan	Multislice computed tomography
What is it based on	x-ray radiation	The impact of the magnetic field on the human body	Reflection of ultrasound from various organs and tissues	Registration of X-ray radiation on film with a special apparatus	X-ray radiation coming from several sources at once located in different areas (spiral shape)
The quality of the images obtained during the diagnostics	Interference and errors may be present	High resolution possible	There are errors	high	No visible interference
Study duration	Two minutes	Fifteen minutes to half an hour	From twenty minutes	Less than thirty minutes	Forty minutes or more
Price	From 2 thousand rubles	More than 5 thousand rubles	3 thousand rubles	Up to 4 thousand rubles	5 thousand rubles or more

Examination cost

CT is widely used in large cities and large administrative centers. In smaller towns, towns and villages, it is not used due to the lack of qualified specialists and specific equipment, the delivery and maintenance of which requires a lot of money.

A significant advantage of computed tomography over a classic X-ray examination is its high informativeness and diagnostic value: CT will show much more existing pathologies and will not require additional research methods.

The cost of the procedure in different cities is not very different. How much does a tomography cost, usually tells the attending physician who will prescribe the procedure. He can also help with choosing a clinic. The price also depends on the power of the tomograph with which the images are taken, the urgency and qualifications of the medical staff.

The more powerful the tomograph, the better and better the images are obtained - so the doctor will be able to see the pathology in the walls of the nasopharynx and nose without additional procedures. On average, for one x-ray photo, to which a transcript is attached, you will have to pay about 5 thousand rubles. The minimum price for which you can go through the PPN procedure is 2.5 thousand rubles.

Computed tomography (CT) is an effective X-ray method for assessing morphological changes occurring in the internal organs of the human body. Previously, this study was carried out mainly to study the structures of the brain, but today doctors often prescribe it to study the soft tissues and organs of the neck.

Method features

CT of the larynx and neck is the main method of radiation diagnostics of the human body, which is used to study the morphological state of the larynx, determine the presence or absence of all kinds of neoplasms that occur in this area, and assess the condition of large blood or lymphatic vessels.

In modern times, there are step-by-step computed tomography, which can be performed with contrast, and spiral, the differences between which are that in the first case, the doctor scans only one topographic slice, and in the second, the object is scanned completely, and subsequently reconstructed into several slices. Spiral CT, in turn, is single-slice and multi-slice.

Tomography of the larynx is most often performed using a spiral method, because it provides a reduction in radiation exposure to the organ under study and allows you to get a more accurate image of it. During the study, the X-ray source rotates around the patient's neck and takes the required number of images, which then make up a three-dimensional image of the organ.

Indications for the procedure

Tomographs of the modern generation make computer research as safe as possible for the patient. X-ray radiation is characterized by a narrow focus and low intensity of action, therefore, after its implementation, ionization damage to the body is not observed. However, the decision on the need for a CT scan of the larynx is still made by the radiologist, who also chooses the scanning technique and determines the preliminary scope of the study.

The main indications for the procedure include:

traumatic injuries of the neck;
inflammatory processes in the nasopharynx;
cysts, tumors, neoplasms in the neck;
larynx injuries;
stenosis or edema of the larynx;
pathologies and anomalies in the development of the thyroid gland;
diagnosis of the state of the blood and lymphatic vessels of the neck.

How is the procedure?

There is no special preparation for a tomographic examination of the neck. Metal jewelry that is on the patient's body at the time of irradiation can distort the results, so they must be removed. The study is carried out in the supine position, while the patient's head is placed on a special pillow and fixed with straps. After that, the couch (or table) on which the person lies is placed in a tomographic frame, and the X-ray machine begins to move smoothly around the neck, making a series of scans and transmitting the image to the monitor of a computer device. The average duration of the procedure is 15 minutes.

If the doctor performs a contrast CT scan, then after receiving the first series of images (they are needed for comparison), the patient is intravenously injected into the blood with a contrast agent and the scan continues. For 4-5 hours before the procedure, it is recommended not to eat anything. After the introduction of contrast, the patient may experience headache and nausea for several hours, these side effects do not require treatment and disappear on their own.

The doctor who performs the procedure deals with the interpretation of the results. The final conclusion according to the study data is issued to the patient no later than one day after the study.

Contraindications for the study

An absolute contraindication to a tomographic examination is pregnancy, because X-ray exposure (even in small doses) can cause intrauterine malformations in the fetus. With caution, it is prescribed to children under 16 years of age (in order to prevent any diseases, it is forbidden to do a CT scan of the neck for children).

Tomography with the use of contrast is contraindicated in patients with allergies to a substance introduced into the blood, as well as in people who suffer from chronic or thyroid diseases (this contraindication is considered relative and requires additional medical advice).

Is there an alternative to CT?

Alternative methods for studying the morphological structure of tissues and organs of the neck include ultrasound and MRI, but CT is considered the most effective, fast and informative method of non-invasive diagnostics.

Computed tomography is considered the "gold standard" of all radiation methods for examining soft tissues and organs of the neck. It allows real-time assessment of the morphological structure of organs and timely detection of even minor pathologies in their development.

When is a CT scan of the nose indicated? Indications for appointment are the following conditions:

suspicion of a violation of the integrity of the bones of the nose and sinuses;
risk of hemorrhage;
traumatic brain injury;
frequent headaches of unknown origin;
frequent bleeding from the nose, accompanied by an increase in blood pressure;
suspicion of the presence of a foreign object in the nasal region;
chronic diseases of the nose;
malignant tumor, the presence of purulent exudate;
complication of the infectious pathology of neighboring organs, which has passed to the nasal sinuses.

What can CT show

Computed tomography of the sinuses allows you to see the image of layered sections of the scanned space. The study shows the contours, density, structure, volume, mineralization of POP.

CT of the nose and sinuses will help evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy if the diagnosis was established long ago.

Pathology diagnosed in time with the help of CT scanning will help to avoid serious consequences and complications.

So what does a CT scan of the sinuses show? With this method, the following diseases can be detected:

at the initial stage and during the process chronization;
neoplasms of the nasal mucosa. The study will also answer the question of whether the tumor is malignant or not;
the cause of regular migraines;
sphenoiditis, ethmoiditis;
polyps;
the cause of the inflammatory process, the treatment of which has no effect;
will help visualize deformation and damage to the bones of the nose;
will show the location of foreign bodies in the sinuses.

Advantages and disadvantages

CT of the paranasal sinuses is a highly accurate method for diagnosing pathologies of the nose and its sinuses. A detailed scan helps to understand at what stage the pathological process is, to prescribe the most correct treatment in this situation.

What are the benefits of a CT scan of the nose and paranasal sinuses? The following advantages of this diagnostic method can be distinguished:

high-quality image of the nasal sinuses;
high research speed;
no negative impact on the body of the subject;
clear visualization of all formations of the nose;
lack of discomfort and pain during the procedure;
complexity - according to the results of the scan, it is possible to assess the condition of bone formations, blood vessels and lacrimal canals.

But CT scans of the nose and paranasal sinuses also have disadvantages. They lie in contraindications. The study cannot be carried out under the following conditions:

pregnancy, as CT is able to form a fetal malformation;
children's age - the child can not move for a long time. In addition, belts cause fear in them;
allergic reactions to iodine used as a contrast agent. But contrasting may not be used in the study;
lactation period;
thyroid disease;
insufficiency of renal, hepatic, cardiac functions;
diabetes;
myeloma.

Do you need preparation

Computed tomography of the paranasal sinuses does not require preparation if performed without contrast. If contrasting is used, then the patient should not eat for 6 hours before the examination, it is not recommended to drink 3 hours before the procedure. It is also necessary to remove metal objects, dentures.

How is the diagnosis carried out

CT scan of the paranasal sinuses is performed as follows:

Specialists assess the condition of the subject.
The essence of the research method and the purpose of its implementation are explained to the patient.
The patient is put on a suit that will protect the body from exposure to x-rays.
Next, the patient is laid on his back, on the couch. The arms should be extended along the body. The head is fixed in the headrest. You may need to press your chin to your chest and look up.
If necessary, enter the contrast. 50 ml of contrast is usually injected into the cubital vein through a catheter. For a short time, the patient may feel warmth and a specific taste. These sensations pass on their own and quickly.
The table, together with the subject, is pushed into the tomograph. Further, the doctor goes to the room where the equipment for recording and processing the signals of the apparatus is located. The specialist has the opportunity to communicate with the patient at the time of the examination due to the sound device.
During a CT scan of the nose, the table moves up or down. This is necessary to register an image in various projections.
The entire examination takes 5-10 minutes. Upon completion, the patient is sent home or to the ward.

Deciphering the results

According to the results of computed tomography of the nose, the doctor evaluates the following parameters:

how the nasal septum and the bones that form the sinuses are located;
in what ways does sinus drainage occur;
symmetry of the right and left sides of the nose, sinuses. This parameter will help to find out the anatomical location of the bones and, if necessary, to carry out surgical correction in the future;
sinus pneumatization, its degree.

The interpretation of the results of CT scan of the nose and paranasal sinuses can be presented in the table:

Pathology	Signs on CT	Research features	What research methods can be combined with
Sinusitis	Fluid in axillary lumens, thickened soft tissues	CT for sinusitis does not apply to the main diagnostic methods. It is prescribed only in the absence of the effect of treatment and for the differentiation of diseases.	X-ray examination of PPN as an additional method
polyps	In the case of a single polyp, a stalk formation is visualized, which comes from the shell of the axillary wall. If the polyps are multiple, then the shape of the sinus will be changed	It is difficult to detect polyps located in the alveolar bay (formation in the maxillary sinus)	Initially, an X-ray of the PPN is done. CT is prescribed to clarify the data
Neoplasms of the sinuses	The bone tissue is destroyed, in the soft tissues the formation is visualized	Difficulties in differentiating between benign and malignant lesions	If it is not possible to differentiate a benign and malignant tumor by CT, then biopsy material is taken from the altered tissue.
Odontogenic cysts of the maxillary sinuses	Homogeneous darkening of an intense character, the upper contour is rounded and clear. Over the cyst, the mucosa may be thickened	It may be necessary to conduct a differential diagnosis of a polyp in the alveolar bay	This pathology is usually diagnosed by X-ray examination. CT helps to eliminate the shadow from the bones, to clarify the size of the cyst. Magnetic resonance imaging may be required to accurately delineate cysts
Rhinogenic cysts of the maxillary sinus	Darkening of a homogeneous character, rounded. It is adjacent to the axillary wall. The top outline is clearly visible	The mucous membrane is not thickened.

How often can you do research

Many people have a question: how often can CT of the sinuses be done, since in this study the patient receives a certain dose of radiation.

The radiation dose obtained from CT varies from 1 to 5 mSv. It is optimal to conduct a scan no more than once every six months. If necessary, this interval can be reduced to 2 months.

With computed tomography, the patient receives more radiation than with x-rays and fluorography.

Which is better: CT or MRI

What is better to do: CT or MRI of the sinuses? Each method has specific indications. This or that study is assigned based on the alleged disease.

So, with CT, bone structures are well visualized, and with MRI - soft tissues. For example, CT is suitable for detecting tumors that have penetrated the axillary walls. CT is also suitable for diagnosing sinusitis and frontal sinusitis, but only MRI of the sinuses can determine their variety and detect the cause. Magnetic resonance imaging will also help diagnose mucosal diseases, polyps, and labyrinthitis. These methods can complement each other.

CT of the sinuses is a safe and informative study that allows you to diagnose many pathologies due to the high accuracy of the image obtained. Using this method, you can determine the indications for surgical intervention, track the effectiveness of the treatment.

Useful video about CT of the sinuses

CT of the larynx is a non-invasive procedure aimed at obtaining three-dimensional images of the upper part of the windpipe, which can be used to diagnose various types of pathologies. There are two main types of computer diagnostics:

step-by-step - used if the introduction of a contrast agent is required;
spiral (single-slice and multi-slice) - has a lower radiation exposure.

The detail of the images is determined by three main factors: the immobility of the patient, the use of a contrast agent and the technical characteristics of the tomograph.

The most detailed view of the respiratory system allows high-field closed devices, while low-field (mainly open type) have less power and are not suitable for detecting tumors in the initial stages.

What does it show?

A CT scan helps in the diagnosis of many types of diseases and pathological conditions, including:

abnormal changes in tissues and bones after infections;
stenosis, thrombosis and muscle paralysis;
mechanical damage to the trachea and larynx;
tracheomalacia;
neoplasms of various localization, degree of development and size, as well as metastases in cancer;
hyperplasia;
enlarged regional lymph nodes;
causes of voice dysfunction (edema, cysts, etc.).

Together with the study of the larynx, CT of the trachea and bronchi is often prescribed, for example, to check the reasons for the deterioration of airway patency.

If there is suspicion of a large-scale spread of the disease, then an examination of the entire pharynx is carried out.

Indications and contraindications

Of the key indications for the appointment of this type of diagnosis, it is worth noting:

the likelihood of abscess and phlegmon;
upcoming surgery;
oncological diseases;
the presence of seals on the mucous membranes;
neck and throat injuries;
trouble breathing and/or swallowing;
vascular pathologies;
inflammatory processes in the chronic and acute stages.

CT of the larynx is not allowed for pregnant women and children under fourteen years of age, patients with epilepsy and hyperkinesis, patients in serious condition (connected to ventilators, etc.) and people with diseased kidneys and thyroid gland, if a procedure with amplification is planned.

How long does it last?

If screening does not involve amplification, then its duration does not exceed 5-10 minutes. After intravenous administration of an iodine-containing substance, the patient will have to spend about twenty minutes inside the apparatus, and in the most immobile state.

How to get a referral for diagnostics?

The issuance of referrals for research is carried out by doctors of various specializations: pulmonology, oncology, etc. You can make an appointment with a doctor in a private clinic or get an appointment for a CT scan at a regular clinic, but in any case, you need to visit a medical facility, otherwise you risk spending money and getting a scan that was not necessary in your case.

How do they do it?

An approximate diagram of how a CT scan of the larynx is done:

come to the CT diagnostics room at the time for which you signed up - you need to dress in a light cotton outfit, and before starting the examination, remove all metal objects;
with the help of a doctor, lie down on the table, after which the head is fixed with straps so that the pictures are accurate;
the table moves to the tomograph, the arch begins to rotate - this will be indicated by a hum and knock;
at the end of the scan, the table leaves the device, the latches are removed, and you can go about your business.

There are several differences in how the procedure goes with and without contrast, in particular, in the first case, before you lie down on the couch, you will be given the drug, and after the screening is over, you will be advised to drink more so that it leaves the body faster. If possible, stay in the clinic for another 30-60 minutes, so that if you feel worse (which is extremely rare), you will receive qualified assistance.

Why use contrast?

Contrast CT scanning of the larynx has become widespread, which is most informative if the doctor suspects oncology. The introduction of an iodine-containing substance improves the visualization of internal cavities by an order of magnitude, “illuminating” the vessels and making it possible to determine the location and size of tumors and metastatic neoplasms.

Before performing a study with contrast, the doctor makes a test to make sure there are no allergic reactions, and also determines if there are any other contraindications for refusing to diagnose (hormonal disruptions, kidney dysfunction, diabetes mellitus). Even if the tumor is small, modern tomographs can detect it.

How long does decryption take?

Pictures of the larynx and other organs (for example, if a CT scan of the trachea is done at the same time) are evaluated by a radiologist who establishes the presence of cysts or tumors, foreign objects, injuries, identifies foci of inflammation and makes an assumption about the causes of deviations from the norm. The wait, depending on the clinic and the complexity of the case, can range from 40-60 minutes to one day (many centers practice issuing results the next day).

Together with the doctor's written opinion with a personal signature and seal, you will receive a disk (or flash drive) with layered images, as well as a printed set of images.

Which is better - CT or MRI of the larynx?

Despite certain similarities (non-invasiveness, obtaining three-dimensional images of the area under study, etc.), MRI and CT of the throat have a number of significant differences:

CT screening uses x-rays (radiation is an order of magnitude less than x-rays, but there is still a risk of negative consequences with frequent examinations), and the principle of operation of MRI machines is based on the use of electromagnetic pulses;
they are approximately equal in cost, but CT is slightly cheaper;
you cannot do an MRI if you have heart pumps, pacemakers and other devices in your body;
the number of magnetic resonance scanning procedures per year is not limited.

So, here's why computed tomography is better: price, speed, ability to recognize bone damage, and accessibility for people with implanted devices.

On the other hand, the study is not suitable for children and pregnant women, plus it can be carried out without health risk no more than 1-2 times within one to two years.

The attending physician will be able to determine which method will be the most informative, taking into account indications and contraindications, therefore, before making an appointment with a particular diagnostic center, it is advisable to get an appointment with a specialized specialist and get a referral.