A computed tomography (CT) scan of the orbit is an imaging method. It uses x-rays to create detailed pictures of the eye sockets (orbits), eyes and surrounding bones.
Alternative Names
CT scan - orbital; Eye CT scan; Computed tomography scan - orbit
How the Test is Performed
You lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of the CT scanner. Only your head is placed inside the CT scanner.
You may be allowed to rest your head on a pillow.
Once you are inside the scanner, the machine's x-ray beam rotates around you.
A computer creates separate images of the body area, called slices. These images can be stored, viewed on a monitor, or printed on film. The computer can create three-dimensional models of the body area by stacking the slices together.
You must lie still during the exam, because movement causes blurred images. You may be told to hold your breath for short periods.
The actual scan takes about 30 seconds. The entire process takes about 15 minutes.