Facial Bone and Sinus X-Ray with Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
This test uses X-rays and advanced imaging to examine the bones, sinuses, and soft tissues of your face, skull, and surrounding areas. It helps identify issues like fractures, infections, structural abnormalities, or other conditions affecting these regions.
["A CT scan provides detailed images of your facial bones and sinuses for diagnostic purposes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60660-8
- Short code
- Face L1 to chin/Face all Skull XR
- Synonyms
- Face L1 to chin/Face all Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 5
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 82378
- SNOMED
- 394995008
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order a facial CT scan to investigate symptoms such as pain, swelling, trauma, or signs of infection in the face, sinuses, or skull. It’s also used to evaluate suspected fractures, tumors, or other abnormalities that standard X-rays might miss.
Common Uses and Conditions
Conditions like sinus infections, facial trauma (e.g., from accidents or sports injuries), dental issues, or suspected bone disorders (e.g., osteomyelitis) may prompt this test. It’s also used in planning surgeries or biopsies of facial structures.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, or metal objects. You’ll lie down on a table while the scanner moves around your head and face. Contrast dye may be used in some cases to highlight blood vessels or soft tissues.
During the Test
The procedure takes about 15–30 minutes. You’ll hear loud noises (like a fan) and may feel vibrations as the scanner moves. Stay still to ensure clear images.
Reference range
Non-smokers: <2.5 ng/mL; Smokers: <5.0 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation required. For PSA, avoid sexual activity for 24-48 hours before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test provides high-resolution images critical for diagnosing fractures, infections, tumors, or structural abnormalities in the facial bones and sinuses. It helps guide treatment plans, such as surgery, medication, or physical therapy, by offering precise details about tissue and bone integrity.
Short name
CT Scan of Face/Sinus/Bone Structures
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to fast before this test?
How long will it take to get my results?
Is this test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy