Clinique Pasteur Tunis
Neck CT scan (nasopharynx, larynx)
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Neck CT scan (nasopharynx, larynx)

Neck CT scan in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Neck CT scan in Tunis: assessment of a lump, lymph nodes, the nasopharynx or the larynx, usually with an iodinated contrast injection.

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What is it?

A neck CT scan examines the tissues of the neck: the nasopharynx (the back of the nose), the throat, the larynx (where the vocal cords are), the salivary glands, the thyroid, the lymph nodes and the blood vessels. It is requested to understand a lump or swollen lymph node in the neck, to assess an ENT tumour, to look for the cause of persistent hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, or to look for a deep neck infection. An iodinated contrast injection is usual, to clearly distinguish blood vessels from lymph nodes. The examination can be focused on the nasopharynx or larynx, or extended to the chest in the same session (neck and chest CT), particularly for staging.

When is it indicated?

Lump or lymph node in the neck

It shows the size, likely nature and relationship of the lump to the blood vessels.

Assessment of an ENT tumour

It measures the extent of a tumour of the nasopharynx, throat or larynx and looks for affected lymph nodes.

Persistent hoarseness or difficulty swallowing

It complements the ENT examination to look for a lesion of the larynx or throat.

Deep neck infection

It looks for an abscess and guides possible drainage.

Preparation

1Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be: a CT scan uses X-rays
2Remove necklaces, earrings, removable dentures and metal objects around the neck
3If an injection is planned, tell us about any allergy (especially to an iodinated contrast agent), kidney disease, diabetes or myeloma; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested
4Tell us if you take metformin (a diabetes treatment): whether to pause it around the injection is decided by the doctor
5If an injection is planned, do not eat for a few hours beforehand, as instructed when you book; your usual medicines can generally be taken with a little water
6Bring your referral, previous imaging (CT scan, MRI, X-rays, ultrasound) and any relevant reports

Procedure

1

You lie on your back, arms by your sides and shoulders relaxed downwards

2

You lie on a table that slides slowly through a wide, open ring: it is not a closed tunnel

3

If an injection is needed, the iodinated contrast agent is given through a small drip in your arm: a brief feeling of warmth and a metallic taste are normal

4

You are asked not to swallow or talk during the pass; a specific instruction (puffing out your cheeks, saying "ee") may be given for the larynx

5

The radiographer can see and hear you at all times from the next room

6

You can then return to your usual activities; after an injection, drink plenty of fluids during the day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) to help clear the contrast agent

Duration

About 10 to 20 minutes in total

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

A CT scan uses X-rays: the dose is set as low as possible while still giving useful images, and the examination is only done when it is justified
Pregnancy: a relative contraindication; a CT scan is only performed if it is essential, after medical advice
Allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast agent (if injected): rare and usually mild (redness, itching); serious reactions are exceptional and the team is trained to manage them
In case of kidney failure, the iodinated injection can strain the kidneys: the doctor avoids or adjusts it
Rarely, the contrast agent can leak under the skin at the drip site: temporary swelling, easily managed

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.

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