Sinus Radiography

Norm of Sinus Radiography

Negative.

 

Usage of Sinus Radiography

Cysts, postoperative nasal-sinus surgery, rhinitis, and sinusitis.

 

Description of Sinus Radiography

Sinus x-rays (roentgen rays) are short electromagnetic waves that penetrate the soft sinus tissues to produce an image that is recorded on radiographic film. The sinuses are usually radiolucent because of the air content. Any deviation from total radiolucency indicates tumor or infection.

Precautions
During pregnancy, risks of cumulative radiation exposure to the fetus from this and other previous or future imaging studies must be weighed against the benefits of the procedure. Although formal limits for client exposure are relative to this risk:benefit comparison, the United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission requires that the cumulative dose equivalent to an embryo/ fetus from occupational exposure not exceed 0.5 rem (5 mSv). Radiation dosage to the fetus is proportional to the distance of the anatomy studied from the abdomen and decreases as pregnancy progresses. For pregnant clients, consult the radiologist/ radiology department to obtain estimated fetal radiation exposure from this procedure.

 

Professional Considerations of Sinus Radiography

Consent form NOT required.
Preparation

1. Shield the pregnant uterus during x-ray exposure.
2. Remove earrings, glasses, hairpins, or other radiopaque objects from the head area.

 

Procedure

1. The head is placed in a fixed position.
2. Radiographs of sinuses are taken from several angles.
3. The exam takes 10–15 minutes.

 

Postprocedure Care

1. Remove the lead apron.

 

Client and Family Teaching

1. This test is performed to evaluate sinus cavities for signs of infection or growth.

 

Factors That Affect Results

1. Movement during radiography distorts the images.

 

Other Data

1. Anaerobic organisms are the predominant pathogens of chronic sinusitis.
2. See also Tomography of paranasal sinuses.