CT of the Head

Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT) of your brain. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed images of the body. This technology, called cross-sectional imaging, allows the imaging physician to take highly detailed images and to assess your brain for injury or abnormality, including bleeding, tumors, blood clots, or signs of stroke. A head CT scan can detect a range of conditions such as brain tumors, brain injuries, and abnormalities in brain tissue.

The technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have. Then, they will position you on the exam table.

• • • If contrast dye is being used, it will be injected through your IV placed in your arm.
    • During the injection, you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metallic taste in your mouth. This is normal.
    • If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat, or swelling of your face, please notify the technologist immediately as these could be signs of an allergic reaction to contrast dye.
    • You will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides.
    • Your head will be placed in a holder, and you will be asked to hold very still. Only your head will be covered by the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.
    • People who fear small, close places (claustrophobic) usually do not have problems with this procedure.
    • The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
    • This procedure usually takes approximately 15 minutes.

Women should always inform their physician and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Please inform your doctor and our technologist if you have any known allergies to contrast material.

What to Wear

Please dress in comfortable clothing. Leave all jewelry and valuables at home.

Medications

Please take all the medications that have been prescribed to you by your doctor. Let our staff know what medications you have taken prior to your exam.

Food and Drink

You should not eat solid foods for two hours prior to your test if your exam is being done with contrast. You may, however, drink plenty of clear fluids, such as water and broth, if the exam is with contrast.

If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.

The benefits of CT of the Head:

• Can provide more detailed, accurate results than traditional X-ray.
• Can detect problems/disease earlier.
• Involves minimal risks.
• Painless, noninvasive, and accurate.
• Fast and simple.
• Can be performed if you have an implanted medical device, unlike MRI.
• May eliminate the need for exploratory surgery or biopsy.

Risks you should be aware of:

• There is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast material.
• There are risks associated with radiation exposure. You should discuss this with your physician, especially if you have concerns about the amount of radiation.
• The procedure might not be suitable for patients with kidney disease due to the use of contrast material.

A CT scan involves the use of X-ray technology to produce detailed images of the brain tissue, helping to diagnose various medical conditions. The CT scanner provides a clear view of the chest and brain, offering essential information to your healthcare provider.