Head and neck radiology

Question 1

What can plain radiographs be used for in the head and neck region?

Answer 1

• Lateral soft tissue neck
• Facial views (Maxiofacial)
• OPT (dental assessment)

Question 2

Describe contrast studies and its uses

Answer 2

• Barium and iodine based water soluble contrast media
• Swallows e.g. FOSIT, post op leaks
• Sialograms
• Sinograms etc.
• Videofluoroscopy
  □ Functional V mechanical
  □ Speech therapist in attendance
  □ Different consistencies of barium
  □ Blom-singer valve assessment

Question 3

What can ultrasound be used for in the head and neck area?

Answer 3

• Solid VS cyst
• Vascularity (Doppler)
• Ultrasound guided FNA

Question 4

Explain CT in the head and neck region

Answer 4

• Radiation (children, lens…. IRMER)
• Cross sectional but now MPR and 3D
• Contrast (oral, IV)
• Bony detail verses soft tissue (CT V MRI)

Question 5

Explain MRI in the head and neck region

Answer 5

• No radiation (children)
• Tissue characterisation
• Sequences (T1, T2, STIR)
• Contrast (gadolinium)
• Contraindications

Question 6

Explain nuclear medicine in the head and neck region

Answer 6

• Isotope bone scan (TC 99 MDP)
• Thyroid (Pertech)/ Parathyroid (sestam ibi)
• Positron emission tomography (FDG)
  □ Unknown primary
  □ Detection of recurrent post treatment
  □ Assessment of treatment response