Standard X-ray of the skull, facial bones, sinuses, nasal bones and nasopharynx (cavum)
Skull, Face and Sinus X-Ray in Casablanca
These X-rays show the bones of the skull and face, the sinuses (air-filled cavities around the nose), the nasal bones and, in children, the nasopharynx, at the back of the nose. A CT scan, which is more detailed, is often preferred: your doctor decides. These images are quick and painless. They show bone and the air in the sinuses well, but show very little of the brain, which is studied with a CT scan or MRI.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Usually less than 10 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
Carestream
Reading aid
The center uses Gleamer, artificial intelligence software that helps the radiologist read X-rays. Interpretation and the report are still done by the radiologist.
When is this exam needed?
- Blow to the nose, to look for a fracture.
- Child who snores or breathes through the mouth (adenoids).
- Sinusitis, depending on the doctor's assessment.
- Abnormality of the skull bones to investigate.
- Repeated ear infections in a child, possibly linked to the adenoids.
- Pain or discomfort in the face after a blow, depending on the doctor's examination.
How the exam is done
On arrival, the radiographer checks which images are requested on the prescription: the sinuses, nasal bones, skull and nasopharynx are not positioned the same way. For a child, the radiographer explains each step and helps them hold the position.
You remove your glasses, earrings, hair clips and removable dental appliance. Sitting or standing facing the detector, you rest your chin or forehead against it. For the sinuses, you are often asked to open your mouth; for the nasopharynx, the child is positioned sideways. Stay still for each image. Each pose lasts only a few seconds. The radiographer then checks that the images are sharp, after which you can put your glasses back on and leave.
Preparation
- Leave facial piercings and metal hair clips at home.
- Bring your previous CT scans or X-rays of the face: this makes comparison easier for the radiologist.
- For a child, explain that they will need to stay still, with the head resting against the support.
Fasting
No fasting is needed.
Contrast injection
No needle and no contrast agent.
Contraindications and precautions
- Possible pregnancy: tell us, even though only the head is exposed.
- Head injury with vomiting or drowsiness: urgent medical advice is needed; during opening hours, the center can perform the prescribed exam as an emergency, often a CT scan.
- Facial jewelry, removable dental appliance or hearing aid: remove them, as they would interfere with reading the bones.
- Heavy nosebleed or nose deformed after a blow: see a doctor without delay.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the doctor or ENT specialist
- Previous X-rays or CT scans of the face
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
X-ray or CT scan of the sinuses?
The CT scan, which is much more precise, has largely replaced sinus X-rays. An X-ray may be enough for a simple question: your doctor decides.
Why an X-ray of the nasopharynx?
In a child who snores or has repeated ear infections, it assesses the size of the adenoids. The ENT specialist takes this into account for treatment.
Is an X-ray needed after a blow to the nose?
Not always: the diagnosis relies first on the doctor's examination. The X-ray can add to it, for example before the nose is realigned.
Can I keep my glasses on?
No. Glasses and jewelry would show up over the facial bones. Remove them just before the image is taken.
Can this X-ray be done as an emergency?
Yes. During opening hours, the center can perform a prescribed X-ray as an emergency, for example after a blow to the nose. If there are signs of severity after a head injury, the doctor will rather request a CT scan.
Why open the mouth for the sinuses?
With the mouth open, the chin resting on the support and the head slightly raised, this position clears the sinuses located under the eyes and prevents the teeth from overlapping them.