Is it possible to have a nose fracture that does not show up on CT scan?

Question

I had a nose injury and it hurts and still swollen after 3 mos. But nothing showed up on catscan, it feels broken and hurts...

William Portuese, MD · Answer

After 3 months, the nasal bones have completely healed, and it may not show up. In addition, trauma to the nose can cause a displaced nasal fracture, or a non--displaced nasal fracture.  Trauma to the nose can also cause the upper lateral cartilages to become fractured off of the nasal bones, and a deviated septum can result from trauma as well.

Elliot Heller, MD · Answer

Yes it is possible to have to nasal fracture that doesn't show up on a CT scan if it is very small. You need to have a doctor look at you and see what the best treatment is for you. You either have to see a ENT or Facial Surgeon.

Sunny Park, MD, MPH · Answer

Yes, it's possible to have had a fracture on the nose and not have it show up on a CT scan after 3 months. It's possible that you had a fracture that was non-displaced and now has healed.  At this point, I recommend that you see an ENT physician or a Facial Plastic Surgeon. Good luck!

Robert S. Schmidt, MD · Answer

Yes, it is possible to have a fracture that won't show up on a CT scan. Nasal fractures can be subtle- too small to detect on a CT scanner- or they may have only affected the cartilage of your nose which a CT scan wouldn't show either. If you haven't seen an ENT or facial plastic surgeon for an opinion, it's time to go. Good luck!

Benjamin C. Paul, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. In almost all cases, a broken nose will be identified on a CT scan. If the scan shows there is no fracture, then it is unlikely that you broke your nose.  That being said, your nasal pain is real. Persistent nasal pain after trauma can be caused by things other then a broken nose. If you have nerve impingement or a septal cartilage injury, these will not necissarily show up on CT scan.  There are other causes of chronic pain as well that may be identified on physical examination.You should seek a skilled surgeon with a dual training in facial plastics and ENT to do an internal and external nasal evaluation. Best of luck in finding relief to your nasal pain.

Is it possible to have a nose fracture that does not show up on CT scan?

Answers (5)

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