Head CT Scans
A CT scanner directs a series of X-rays through the head that are analyzed by a computer to produce a detailed picture of a "slice" of the area being studied. Each X-ray pulse lasts only a fraction of a second, and it takes only a few seconds for the machine to record each slice. A CT scan produces pictures of the brain that are clearer than regular X-rays.
Why it is Done- Evaluate certain symptoms that might indicate a brain injury, a brain tumor, a ruptured aneurysm or bleeding within the skull.
- Determine the extent of damage caused by a stroke and to help determine the effectiveness of treatment for a stroke.
- Help determine the cause of a loss of consciousness or a decreasing level of consciousness.
- Detect blood clots, tumors, bleeding, infection or increased pressure in the skull or brain.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for a brain tumor.
- Evaluate problems with the bones and joints of the jaw, face and skull.
- Evaluate problems or diseases of the sinuses within the bones around the nose.
- Investigate problems of the eyes and the optic nerve. The test may detect fractures of the bones around the eyes or foreign objects in the eye.
- Investigate problems of the middle ear bones and the auditory nerve.
Procedure- You are escorted into the CT Scan room by the technologist.
- You will lie down on the CT Scan table, on your back with the top of your head facing the CT Machine. There is a small cradle that your head will rest in. The head is the only part of your body that is placed in the CT Scan Unit. This size of the scanner is three feet wide and it is not an enclosed space.
- After positioning your head for the scan, the technologist will leave the room and program the CT scanner to take the pictures.
- You will be able to communicate with the technologist through a speaker system.
- During the actual scanning process, the table will slide out of the scanner and then slowly move back into the scanner. The table will move a little after each picture is taken.
- After all of the pictures are taken, the technologist will assist you from the table.
- You will be asked to stay in the waiting room until the pictures are reviewed. This is done to make sure we have all of the pictures that we need before you leave.
Special NotesA standard CT of the head will take approximately five to eight minutes. Sometimes, based on your history, we may inject a dye into your vein. The dye is used to outline and enhance the images on the pictures. A CT scan of the head includes the brain, skull, inner ear area, sinuses, ears, facial anatomy and eyes. A radiologist will read the CT scan and a report will be sent to your doctor in about four to five days after the scan.
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