CT of the facial bones shows fractures of the cheek, nose, jaw and eye socket after injury, and sinus disease. Learn when it is advised and how 3D images help surgeons.
A CT facial bones scan uses thin slices to show the bones of the face: the cheekbones, nose, eye sockets, upper and lower jaw and sinuses. It is the best test after a face injury to find fractures, bleeding and trapped muscles, and it also helps in planning surgery. It is often combined with a CT scan of the sinuses or the brain.
When Is CT Needed After a Face Injury?
- Road accidents, assault or sports injuries to the face
- Swelling, bruising, deformity or difficulty opening the mouth
- Double vision or numbness of the cheek
- Nosebleed that will not stop or clear fluid from the nose
- Bite that does not fit together
Facial injuries often come with head injuries, so a CT brain may be done at the same time. See CT brain scan.
What CT and 3D Images Show
CT shows tiny fractures that X-rays miss, with exact position, number of fragments and relation to nerves, teeth and the eye. 3D reconstructions give surgeons a model of the face to plan plates and screws, and to restore appearance and function. See 3D CT for fractures and CT orbit scan.
AreaWhat CT may showCheekbone (zygoma)Fracture, displacementOrbit (eye socket)Floor and wall fractures, trapped muscleNose and nasal bonesFracture, septum injuryUpper and lower jawFractures and tooth involvementSinusesBlood, infection or tumoursSinus and Other Problems
CT is also the best scan for chronic sinusitis, polyps and tumours of the nose and sinuses, and for tooth and jaw problems. Contrast may be used for infection or tumours. See CT scan with contrast.
Preparation and Safety
In emergencies, there is no preparation, and a cervical spine injury is also considered. For planned scans, no fasting is needed unless contrast is given. Remove glasses, earrings, dentures and hairpins. The scan takes a few minutes. Radiation is kept low, with special care in children. See CT scan radiation dose.
Understanding Your Report
The report will name the bones fractured and describe displacement, orbital floor defects, trapped muscle and sinus bleeding. It may mention "Le Fort" fractures, tripod fractures or blow-out fractures. Ask your surgeon which are important and whether surgery is needed now or after swelling settles in a few days.
A Practical Example
Rahul, 27, is hit in the face in a bike accident. He has double vision and a flat cheek. CT shows a fracture of the cheekbone and the floor of the eye socket, with a trapped eye muscle. A maxillofacial surgeon operates within days, and his vision and appearance are restored.
After the Scan and Next Steps
Take the CT to a maxillofacial surgeon, ENT specialist or eye specialist. Some fractures heal with rest and a soft diet; others need surgery with plates and wires. Avoid blowing your nose hard, apply cold packs, sleep with your head raised and attend all review visits. Seek urgent care for vision loss, severe pain or fever.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Which facial bones are broken?
- Is surgery needed and when?
- Is my eye muscle trapped?
- How long before I can eat normally and return to sport?
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Blowing your nose hard after a facial injury.
- Delaying care when you have double vision.
- Wearing metal items inside the scan room.
Booking, Timing and Report
Most CT scans can be booked on the same day, and the visit takes 20 to 40 minutes. Carry your prescription, old scans and a recent creatinine report if contrast is planned. Reports are usually ready within 24 hours, and images can be provided on a CD or digital link for your doctor.
Key Facts at a Glance
- CT shows facial fractures better than X-ray
- 3D images help plan surgery
- Double vision after injury needs urgent review
- Avoid blowing your nose after a facial fracture
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is CT better than X-ray for the face?
It shows small fractures and 3D detail.
Do I need contrast?
Usually not for injuries.
Is it safe for children?
Yes, with a low-dose protocol.
Can CT show sinus problems?
Yes.
How long does it take?
A few minutes.
Will I need surgery?
Some fractures do.
What is a blow-out fracture?
A break of the thin floor of the eye socket.
Can CT detect tooth problems?
It can show jaw and tooth-related disease.
When is the report ready?
Usually within 24 hours.
Book Your Test at Ganesh Diagnostic
Ganesh Diagnostic & Imaging Centre in Rohini, Delhi offers this test with trained radiology staff and clear reports. You can book an appointment online, check our branches across Delhi NCR, contact us for current rates, or explore all our services. Reports can be downloaded online through our patient portal, so you do not need to make a second trip just to collect them.
This article is for general information only. It does not replace advice from your doctor. Always follow your doctor's instructions for your test.
