Modern imaging of paranasal sinuses and the role of limited sinus computerized tomography; considerations of time, cost and radiation.

The modern diagnostic radiology department is equipped with a variety of medical imaging systems that can be used for evaluation of diseases of the sinonasal cavities. Each has advantages and disadvantages. The imaging examinations of the paranasal sinuses may include conventional films, complex motion tomography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The indications for these imaging methods are reviewed, along with a discussion on the role of imaging for endoscopic sinus surgery. A summary of CT anatomy relating to the ethmoidal sinuses and ostiomeatal complex is given, as is a review of the risk of radiation for radiologic sinus imaging.