CT PNS scans evaluate paranasal sinus anatomy and pathology: diagnosing acute or chronic sinusitis, identifying mucosal thickening, air–fluid levels, polyps, tumors, bone erosion and complications. They guide preoperative planning for endoscopic sinus surgery, assess facial trauma or obstruction, and localize disease when symptoms persist or recur despite treatment, and evaluate the osteomeatal complex for drainage obstruction.

In India a non‑contrast CT PNS typically costs roughly ₹700–₹6,000 depending on city and centre; in the UK it’s free on the NHS when clinically indicated or about £100–£400 privately. In the US self‑pay prices vary widely, commonly $300–$3,000 depending on facility, outpatient centre, and whether contrast or radiologist fees are included. Costs vary by location and insurance.

A CT scan of the neck provides detailed cross-sectional images of bones, cervical spine, airway, soft tissues, blood vessels (with contrast), lymph nodes, thyroid, salivary glands and nearby structures. It detects fractures, tumors, infections or abscesses, inflammation, enlarged nodes, and vascular abnormalities such as dissections or aneurysms. Contrast-enhanced scans improve visualization of masses and blood flow.

A PNS CT scan is generally painless and non‑invasive. You’ll lie on a table that moves through the scanner; you may feel mild discomfort from keeping still or anxiety/claustrophobia. Most sinus CTs don’t need contrast; if an IV dye is used, you might feel a brief warm flush or slight sting. Tell staff if you’re uncomfortable; serious pain or complications are rare.

A CT PNS is designed to evaluate sinuses and nearby bone; it may incidentally show large intracranial masses or bone erosion but is not reliable for detecting brain tumors. Small, deep, or posterior-fossa lesions are often missed. If intracranial pathology is suspected, dedicated imaging—preferably contrast-enhanced MRI of the brain (or at least a contrast CT brain)—is recommended for accurate diagnosis.

PNS on a CT scan stands for paranasal sinuses — the air-filled cavities around the nose. A CT PNS non-contrast study evaluates sinus anatomy and pathology (sinusitis, mucosal thickening, polyps, obstruction, fractures, or tumors), assesses disease extent, and helps plan treatment or surgery. It gives detailed bone and air-space imaging beyond plain X-rays.