CT Scan of the Head
Definition
A CT scan is an x-ray that makes cross-sectional images. In this case, the images are focused in the head.
CT Scan of the Head
Parts of the Body Involved
- Head
- Brain
Reasons for Procedure
A CT scan is done to study the skull, brain, jaw, sinuses, and facial bones. The scan will look for signs of injuries, tumors, or other disease.
Your doctor may recommend a head CT if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Headache
- Seizures
- Head injury or injury to the face or eyes
- Dizziness or problems with balance
- Pain
- Confusion
- Behavior or personality change
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Cough
- Swelling in the face, head, or neck
- May be used as guidance for procedures (eg, brain biopsy)
Many conditions and diseases can be diagnosed with a head CT. These include:
- Brain tumor
- Spread of cancer from another location (metastases)
- Cysts
- Congenital brain malformations
- Bleeding
- Strokes
- Aneurysm
- Swelling due to concussion or other trauma, or due to infection
- Sinus disease
- Fractures of the skull, jaw, or facial bones
- Hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the head)
- Abscess
- Chronic sinusitis
Risk Factors for Complications During the Procedure
A contrast dye is sometimes used. The dye can lead to the worsening of your renal or kidney function. Previous allergic or anaphylactic response to contrast dye is another complication.
If you are pregnant your doctor may choose a different radiological study to limit the exposure to x-rays.
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
You may be given a contrast dye. If this is the case, do not eat or drink anything for four hours before your exam.
You will need to wear a hospital gown. You will also need to remove anything containing metal from your head and neck, including jewelry, false teeth, glasses, and hair barrettes.
During Procedure
If a contrast dye is needed, it will be given in a barium solution drink or it will be injected into a vein. You'll be positioned on a special movable table part-way inside the CT scanner.
Anesthesia
None
Description of the Procedure
The gantry advances you very slowly through the CT scanner. You'll need to be very still during the entire test. If you have difficulty keeping your head perfectly still, the technician may choose to immobilize your head. As the scanner takes pictures, you'll hear some humming and clicking. You are able to talk to the technician and/or doctor during the exam. If you are in pain, frightened, or concerned in any way, you can talk with them.
After Procedure
If you've received contrast dye, drink extra fluids to more quickly flush it out of your body.
How Long Will It Take?
It may take 10-60 minutes. The length depends on how much area must be scanned and how much detail is needed.
Will It Hurt?
The scan itself will not hurt, although you may feel restless. When you receive an injection of contrast dye, you may feel flushed. You may also notice a salty or metallic taste in your mouth. Some people experience brief nausea as the dye circulates.
Possible Complications
- Allergic or anaphylactic response to contrast dye
Average Hospital Stay
None
Postoperative Care
None
Outcome
Your doctor should be able to spot any abnormalities in your brain, skull, or facial bones.
Call Your Doctor If Any of the Following Occurs
You had contrast dye and notice:
- Hives
- Itching
- Nausea
- Swollen, itchy eyes
- Tightness of throat
- Difficulty breathing
Resources:
Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Radiological Society of North America
Canadian Resources:
About Kids Health
Canada Diagnostic Centres
References:
CT scan. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ct-scan/FL00065. Accessed on October 20, 2007.
Medical encyclopedia: cranial CT scan. MedlinePlus. Available at: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003786.htm. Accessed October 14, 2005.
Zater BL, et al. Yale University School of Medicine Patient's Guide to Medical Tests. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin;1997.
Last reviewed October 2007 by Marcin Chwistek, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.