CT scan of the head: procedures, risks, test results

Definition

What is CT head scan?

Computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to X-rays of the head and face.

During the test, you will lie on a table that is placed on a CT scanner, a device that is shaped like a giant donut. Your head will be positioned in the scanner. The scanner emits X-rays to your head. Each rotation of the scanner captures a photo of your head and face. One part of the scanner can capture x-rays from another position. The photos will be saved in a folder and will be printed later. In some cases, a special dye will be injected into a vein in your arm or into the spine. This fluid makes it easier for body structures and organs to be x-rayed by a CT scan. These fluids may also be used to check blood flow and check for tumors, areas of inflammation, or nerve damage. A CT scan of the head informs about the condition of the eyes, jawbone, nasal sinuses, and inner ear. If this area is a concern, a special CT scan will need to be done. A CT scan of the head may also be done to monitor for headaches.

When should I have a CT head scan?

A head CT scan is recommended to help doctors diagnose or monitor the following conditions:

• birth with a head or brain (congenital) defect
• brain infection
• brain tumor
• buildup of fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus)
• craniosynostosis
• wounds (trauma) to the head and face
• stroke or bleeding in the brain

A head CT scan is also done to monitor the causes of:

• change in attitude or thought
• passed out
• headache, when other symptoms occur
• hearing loss (in some patients)
• symptoms of damage to parts of the brain, such as vision problems, muscle weakness, numbness, hearing loss, speech problems, or swelling.

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before undergoing a CT head scan?

Sometimes the results of a CT scan can vary depending on the type of x-ray you are doing, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound scan because CT scans produce different angles. Children who are about to have a CT scan need special instructions for X-rays. If the child is too young or afraid, the doctor may give you a special medicine to make your child feel relaxed (sedative). If the child is scheduled to have a CT scan, contact the doctor about it for more information. An MRI may provide information after X-rays of the head and face.

Process

What should I do before undergoing a CT head scan?

Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, as X-rays are not recommended for pregnant women. If you weigh more than 150 kg, find out the weight limit for a CT scan machine as some tools have their own limitations. You will be asked to remove your jewelry and wear special clothes from the hospital to survive the X-rays. If necessary, a special fluid will be injected, and you should take extra precautions. For example, people taking diabetes medicines such as metformin (glucophage) should take certain steps, tell your doctor if you are taking these drugs. Also tell your doctor if you experience a reaction to the fluid.

How is the CT scan head process?

CT scans are usually performed by a radiologist. X-rays are usually read by a radiologist who will write a scan report. Other doctors will also review your CT scan results. You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, and hearing aids. Wear loose, comfortable clothes. During the test, you will be asked to lie down on an x-ray table. The straps will hold your head, but your face will not be covered.

The x-ray table rotates in the direction of the scanner, and the scanner rotates on your body. This X-ray table will rotate while the scanner captures the image. You will hear a click or hum from the scanner. It is very important to lie down while the x-rays are taken. During the x-ray, you will probably be alone in the room. But the radiologist will monitor you through the window. You can stay in touch with the radiologist via the two-way intercom. X-rays are carried out for 30 to 60 minutes. A long time was spent preparing X-rays. The actual scanning process only takes a few seconds.

What should I do after undergoing a CT head scan?

You can do your normal activities as before. Some exercise may be needed and the doctor will explain why exercise is important.

Explanation of the Test Results

What do my test results mean?

The doctor will usually receive complete X-rays within 1-2 days.

CT scan of the face and head
Normal:	The brain, blood vessels, skull and face are all normal in size, shape and position
No foreign objects grow or settle
No bleeding occurs
Abnormal:	Tumor growth or bleeding occurs in the brain. There are foreign objects such as glass or metal. The skull or facial bones are damaged or look abnormal. Nerves are damaged or painful.
There is a buildup of fluid, it can be bleeding outside or inside
An aneurysm appears
The opening of the ventricles of the brain to the cerebrospinal where the flow of fluid enlarges. One part of the brain experiences swelling (edema) or other changes that could be a stroke.
The sinuses fill with fluid and build up.