Scans & Tests · Nasal polyps

Scans and tests your GP or consultant may recommend for Nasal polyps

This is information about which scans and tests may be used to assess Nasal polyps, and what each one is: not a recommendation. Your clinician decides which scan or test, if any, you need. Prices below are typical UK private ranges; enter your postcode to see the NHS wait near you.

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Examination, sometimes with nasendoscopy

The ENT looks up the nose, sometimes with a nasendoscopy, a thin camera. It is a test, not a scan.

A nasendoscopy passes a thin flexible camera up the nose to look at the nasal passages and sinuses. It is a camera test rather than an imaging scan, done in clinic.

How long: A few minutes, usually after a numbing spray.

Good for: Seeing polyps, inflammation and the state of the nasal passages directly.

CT sinuses

The main scan, giving detailed sinus images. It is essential before sinus surgery and to assess how severe the disease is.

A CT (computed tomography) scan uses X-rays and a computer to build cross-sectional images. It is faster than MRI and uses a low dose of radiation.

How long: Usually 10 to 20 minutes.

Good for: Bone detail, the chest and abdomen, and situations where speed matters.

Typical UK private cost: £360 to £1080. Usually bookable within days.

MRI

Used occasionally, for complex or soft-tissue cases.

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to build detailed pictures of soft tissues such as muscles, ligaments, cartilage, discs and the brain. It uses no radiation.

How long: Usually 15 to 45 minutes, lying still inside a tunnel-shaped scanner.

Good for: Soft-tissue and joint detail: ligament and cartilage injuries, the spine and discs, and the brain.

Typical UK private cost: £300 to £1145. Usually bookable within days.

Sources: NHS, Clinical / ENT literature. [1] (opens in new tab) [2] (opens in new tab)

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Wait or Pay is independent and is not the NHS. NHS waits are from DM01 diagnostics data. Nothing here is medical advice; your clinician decides which scan, if any, you need.

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