X-Ray PNS: Cost, Purpose, Procedure, Result [2024]
X-Ray PNS (X-ray of paranasal sinuses) is an imaging technique to visualize the paranasal sinuses (PNS) along with their surrounding soft tissues. It helps detect sinus infections and sinusitis. Sinusitis is the inflammation or swelling of the sinus lining that bacteriae, viruses, allergens, etc may cause. X-Ray PNS is also helpful in detecting other problems like bleeding or tumor in the nose. Pregnant women should inform the physician about their condition as it uses ionizing radiation, which might affect the fetus. The X-ray PNS cost in India ranges from Rs 200 to Rs 500.
What is PNS?
Your skull has many bones. Some bones have air-occupied spaces known as sinuses. These sinuses have many functions, including reducing the head’s weight, aiding in voice processing, air heating, and humidifying the air breathed. PNS are a group of four paired air-filled spaces that surround the nasal cavity. They are named after the facial bones in which they are located:
- Maxillary sinuses ( located under the eyes)
- Frontal sinuses (above the eyes)
- Ethmoidal sinuses (between the eyes)
- Sphenoidal sinuses (behind the eyes)
Your doctor may recommend X-Ray PNS if you have signs and symptoms of Sinusitis that may include-
- pain, swelling, and tenderness around your cheeks, eyes, or forehead
- a blocked nose
- postnasal drip (nasal discharge in the back of the throat)
- bad breath
- a reduced sense of smell
- green or yellow mucus from your nose
- a sinus headache
- a high temperature
- toothache or upper jaw pain
X-Ray PNS Test Details in Brief
| Also Known As | Sinus x-ray, Paranasal sinus radiograph, Sinus film, Nasal sinus x-ray, Paranasal sinus imaging |
| Purpose | To diagnose issues or abnormalities in the sinus cavities, such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, a deviated septum, tumors, cysts, etc |
| Preparation | No special preparation is required. |
| Fasting | No |
| Machine Used | X-Ray Machine |
| Reporting Time | < 24 Hrs. |
| Cost | Rs. 200 to Rs. 500 |
X-Ray PNS Cost
It is usually an inexpensive test, and the price ranges from Rs 200 to Rs 500. However, the actual price would depend on the diagnostic centre, city and X-Ray machine used.
Price at Popular Diagnostic Centres
The table below lists the X-Ray PNS price at some of the popular diagnostic centres.
| Diagnostic Centres | Test Price |
|---|---|
| Janta X-Ray Clinic | ₹ 200 |
| Mahajan Imaging | ₹ 450 |
| Aarthi Scans | ₹ 225 |
| Pulse Imaging | ₹ 210 |
| Shree Krishna Diagnostics | ₹ 240 |
| Vijaya Diagnostic Centre | ₹ 350 |
Cost in different cities
The cost of X-RAY PNS across various cities:
| Cities | Test Price |
|---|---|
| X-RAY PNS Price in Delhi | ₹ 200 – ₹ 450 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Gurgaon | ₹ 225 – ₹ 450 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Noida | ₹ 280 – ₹ 350 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Mumbai | ₹ 210 – ₹ 630 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Kolkata | ₹ 380 – ₹ 400 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Bangalore | ₹ 225 – ₹ 900 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Hyderabad | ₹ 190 – ₹ 350 |
| X-RAY PNS Price in Chennai | ₹ 210 – ₹ 225 |
Purpose of PNS X-Ray
Your healthcare provider recommends X-ray PNS to rule out sinus problems.
- Sinus Infections– To diagnose problems with the paranasal sinuses, such as sinus infections or inflammation.
- Foreign Objects– To check for the presence of foreign objects in the sinuses, such as a piece of food or a small object that may have been inhaled.
- Structural abnormalities– To assess the size and shape of the sinuses, which can help to determine if there are any structural abnormalities or blockages.
- Abnormal Growths– To check for any abnormalities or abnormalities within the sinuses, such as tumors or cysts.
- Assess surrounding structures– To assess the condition of the bones surrounding the sinuses, including the nasal bones, cheekbones, and eye sockets.
- Guide Procedures– To help guide medical procedures, such as sinus surgery or the insertion of a breathing tube.
- Treatment Monitoring– To monitor the progress of treatment for sinus-related problems, such as infections or inflammation.
Preparation For X-Ray Paranasal Sinus
PNS X-ray may not require fasting. One must remove any jewellery or metal objects. Inform your examiner if you have a prosthetic eye, as it can interfere with the result.
As X-rays are ionizing radiations, they can adversely affect developing fetuses in pregnant women. Hence, it should be avoided during pregnancy if not absolutely necessary. However, if it is really necessary, the pregnant woman can wear a lead apron of appropriate thickness as recommended by the standard radiology association.
Procedure: What happens in a PNS X-ray?
The procedure is typically quick and painless. The stepwise method of the X-ray PNS is as follows-
- Positioning: You will be asked to stand or sit in front of the X-ray machine and position your head so that the area of interest is directly in front of the machine. You may be asked to hold your head in a certain position or to tilt it slightly to get the best image.
- X-ray exposure: The X-ray technician will take the X-ray by placing a small plate behind your head and a larger plate in front of your head. The technician will then step behind a protective barrier and activate the X-ray machine with a remote control. The machine will produce a brief flash of X-ray radiation, which will pass through your head and be absorbed by the plates. This process will be repeated a few times to produce a series of images. A lead apron may be provided as protection against radiation.
- Reviewing the images: After the X-ray is complete, the images will be reviewed by a radiologist (a doctor who specializes in medical imaging). The radiologist will look for any abnormalities or issues in the nasal and sinus cavities. If any problems are found, the radiologist will report the findings to your doctor, who will discuss the results with you and recommend any necessary treatment.
Different Views from Various X-ray PNS Positions
X-ray PNS Occipital frontal view or X-ray PNS Cadwell’s view: In this view, the X-ray plate is perpendicular to the orbitomeatal line (line drawn between the outer corner of the eye and the center of the ear). The rays pass from behind the head and are angled at 15-20° to the radiographic plate.
X-ray PNS Occipitomental view or X-ray PNS Waters view:
In this view, an x-ray beam is angled at 45° to the orbitomeatal line. The rays pass from behind the head and are perpendicular to the radiographic plate. Another variation of the waters view places the orbitomeatal line at a 37° angle to the image receptor
X-ray PNS Lateral view: The lateral side of the skull lies against the film and the x-ray beam is projected at an angle of 90 degree from the opposite side. It is a non-angled sideway X-ray showing the anteroposterior (front to back) extent of the maxillary, frontal and sphenoid sinus.
X-Ray PNS Result
The abnormal result may indicate the presence of sinusitis due to viral or bacterial infection, bleeding, tumors, and some serious issues.
Images of different views of PNS X-ray
- Cadwell’s view or occipital frontal view
The following may be diagnosed-- frontal sinusitis
- sinus polyps, cysts, sinusitis, secondary osteomyelitis
- fractures in orbit
- Water view or occipitomental view
The following may be diagnosed-- facial fractures
- acute sinusitis
- Paranasal sinuses lateral view
The following may be diagnosed-- fracture of the sinus bones
- birth defects
- abnormal growth in the paranasal sinus
- any infection or inflammation in the sinus (chronic)
Risks Associated with PNS X-ray
Practically speaking, X-ray PNS test pose no such life-threatening risks. However, some minor risks are there theoretically. Excessive radiation exposure may develop cancer. However, the small amount of radiation used outweighs that risk.
X-Ray Paranasal Sinus Sample Report
Here is the sample report for X-RAY PNS Waters View:-
Comparison between X-Ray, CT, and USG PNS
X-ray: X-rays are a type of radiology test that uses low-dose radiation to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. In the case of paranasal sinuses, x-rays can be used to identify any abnormalities or abnormalities in the size or shape of the sinuses. However, x-rays are not very detailed and may not be able to show small abnormalities or details within the sinuses.
CT (Computed Tomography): CT scans use x-rays and a computer to produce detailed, cross-sectional images of the body. CT scans can be used to identify abnormalities or abnormalities in the size or shape of the sinuses, as well as any abnormalities within the sinuses themselves. CT scans are more detailed than x-rays and can show smaller abnormalities or details within the sinuses.
USG (Ultrasound): Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. Ultrasound can be used to identify abnormalities in the size or shape of the sinuses. Ultrasounds are not as detailed as x-rays or CT scans and may not be able to show small abnormalities or details within the sinuses.
Overall, CT scans are the most detailed and accurate way to visualize the paranasal sinuses, followed by x-rays and then an ultrasound.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an x-ray of the paranasal sinuses can provide valuable information about the condition of these important structures in the head and face. It can help diagnose problems such as sinus infections, nasal polyps, or abnormalities in the structure of the sinuses. While x-rays have some limitations, they are a safe and non-invasive way to get a detailed view of the sinuses and help guide treatment decisions. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to interpret the results of an x-ray and determine the best course of action for any identified issues.
Frequently Asked Questions:
An X-ray of the paranasal sinuses is a diagnostic imaging test that uses low-dose X-ray radiation to produce detailed images of the sinuses located in the bones of the face and skull. The paranasal sinuses are a group of four pairs of air-filled spaces that are connected to the nasal passages. They help to humidify and filter the air we breathe.
– Trauma to the face or head
– Sudden impact or blunt force
– Penetrating wounds to the face or head
– Surgical procedures involving the sinuses
– Infection or inflammation in the sinuses
– Allergic reactions or chronic sinusitis
– Tumour growth in the sinus cavity
– Changes in air pressure (such as during air travel or scuba diving)
X-rays are generally considered safe, as they use low-dose radiation. However, as with any medical procedure, there is a slight risk of radiation exposure. Pregnant women and children may be more sensitive to radiation and may need to take special precautions before undergoing an X-ray.
The patient will be asked to hold their head in a specific position during the X-ray. The procedure is quick and painless and typically takes less than 10 minutes to complete. After the X-ray, the patient can usually return to normal activities immediately.
No special preparation is typically required for an X-ray of the paranasal sinuses. However, you may be asked to remove any jewelry or other metal objects that may interfere with the X-ray image.
A healthcare provider may order an X-ray of the paranasal sinuses to diagnose or monitor the progress of various conditions affecting the sinuses, such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, or tumors. It may also be used to assess the effects of trauma or surgery on the sinuses.
How to Book PNS X-Ray?
Dr Garima Saroj
Dr Garima Saroj is a dentist from Manipal college of dental sciences. She has previously worked at ESIC dental college and hospital Delhi and Dentecare multispecialty dental clinic Gurugram. She has a passion for writing for patient education and awareness.