Sinus MRI - Overview & Technique

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the sinuses is a noninvasive method to create detailed pictures of the the air-filled spaces inside the skull. These spaces are called the sinuses. Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet. The magnetic field produced by an MRI is about 10 thousand times greater than the earth's.The magnetic field forces hydrogen atoms in the body to line up in a certain way (similar to how the needle on a compass moves when you hold it near a magnet). When radio waves are sent toward the lined-up hydrogen atoms, they bounce back, and a computer records the signal. Different types of tissues send back different signals.Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images.

Sinus MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

MRI of the sinuses; Magnetic resonance imaging - sinuses; Maxillary sinus MRI; Cavernous sinus MRI

Sinus MRI - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

• MRI contrast material is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.
• Exposure to radiation is avoided.
• MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone tissue with other imaging methods.

MRI of the Sinuses - Common Positive Findings

• Abnormal nasal drainage
• Birth defect of the sinuses
• Loss of smell
• Nasal airway blockage that doesn't get better with treatment
• Repeated bloody noses (epistaxis)
• Signs of injury to the sinus area
• Unexplained headaches
• Unexplained sinus pain that does not get better with treatment
• Determine if nasal polyps have spread beyond the nose area
• Evaluate an infection or abscessIdentify a mass or tumor, including cancer
• Plan sinus surgery or monitor your progress after surgery
• Blood clot in a sinus (cavernous sinus thrombosis)
• Cancer or tumor
• Infection in the bones of the sinuses (osteomyelitis)
• Infection of the tissues surrounding the eye (orbital cellulitis)
• Nasal polyps
• Sinusitis - acute
• Sinusitis - chronic

Sinus MRI - Images

MRI of the Sinuses - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Sinus MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

• If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.

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• Sinus MRI information including overview, technique, alternatives, benefits, and common findings. Schedule an MRI of the sinuses in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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