CT Sinogram Procedure: Step-by-Step Explanation
A CT Sinogram is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to evaluate a sinus tract in the body. It helps doctors understand the length, direction, and depth of an abnormal tract that opens on the skin surface.
This procedure is commonly performed when a patient has persistent discharge, infection, or a non-healing wound.
In this article, we will explain what a CT Sinogram is, why it is done, and the step-by-step procedure.
What is a CT Sinogram?
A CT Sinogram is a contrast imaging study where contrast dye is injected into a sinus tract, and a CT scan is performed to visualize the tract clearly.
A sinus tract is an abnormal channel that opens on the skin surface but ends blindly inside the body without connecting to another organ.
CT Sinography provides detailed cross-sectional images, which help doctors detect:
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Hidden abscess
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Infection
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Extension of sinus tract
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Communication with deeper tissues
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| CT Sinogram Procedure: |
Indications for CT Sinogram
Doctors recommend CT Sinogram in the following conditions:
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Chronic non-healing wound
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Post-surgical sinus tract
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Suspected osteomyelitis
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Recurrent abscess
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To evaluate deep sinus extension
Equipment Required
For performing a CT Sinogram, the following materials are required:
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CT Scanner
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Sterile gloves and dressing material
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Small catheter or cannula
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Syringe (10–20 ml)
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Water-soluble iodinated contrast media
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Antiseptic solution
CT Sinogram Procedure (Step-by-Step)
1. Patient Preparation
First, the patient is explained about the procedure and consent is taken.
The patient is positioned on the CT table depending on the location of the sinus tract.
The area around the sinus opening is cleaned with antiseptic solution to maintain sterility.
2. Identification of Sinus Opening
The radiologist or technologist identifies the external opening of the sinus tract on the skin surface.
A small sterile catheter or cannula is gently inserted into the opening.
3. Contrast Injection
A water-soluble contrast agent is slowly injected through the catheter.
The injection should be done gently and under low pressure to avoid rupture of the tract.
The contrast fills the sinus cavity and its branches.
4. CT Scan Acquisition
Once the contrast is injected, the patient undergoes a CT scan of the affected region.
The CT scan captures cross-sectional images, which show:
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Pathway of sinus tract
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Depth of the tract
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Any associated abscess cavity
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Involvement of nearby structures
5. Image Reconstruction
The CT images are processed on the workstation to create:
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Axial images
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Coronal images
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Sagittal images
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3D reconstruction (if needed)
These images provide a clear anatomical map of the sinus tract.
Advantages of CT Sinogram
CT Sinography has several advantages compared to conventional imaging:
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High-resolution images
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Accurate mapping of sinus tract
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Detection of deep infections
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Helps surgeons plan treatment
Possible Complications
Although CT Sinogram is generally safe, some rare complications may include:
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Mild pain during contrast injection
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Contrast leakage
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Infection (rare)
Proper sterile technique helps minimize these risks.
Conclusion
A CT Sinogram is a valuable imaging technique used to evaluate sinus tracts and chronic infections. By injecting contrast directly into the sinus opening and performing a CT scan, doctors can clearly visualize the entire pathway of the tract.
This helps in accurate diagnosis and surgical planning, especially in patients with chronic non-healing wounds or recurrent infections.
✔ Radiographic Gyan Tip for Students:
Always inject contrast slowly and gently during CT Sinogram to avoid rupturing the sinus tract and to obtain accurate imaging results.
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