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(Head CT Scan, Intracranial CT Scan) A CT of the brain is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses special X-rays measurements to produce horizontal, or axial, images (often called slices) of the brain. Brain CT scans can provide more detailed information about brain tissue and brain structures than standard X-rays of the head, thus providing more data related to injuries and/or diseases of the brain. During a brain CT, the X-ray beam moves in a circle around the body, allowing many different views of the brain. The X-ray information is sent to a computer that interprets the X-ray data and displays it in a two-dimensional (2D) form on a monitor. Brain CT scans may be done with or without "contrast." Contrast refers to a substance taken by mouth or injected into an intravenous (IV) line that causes the particular organ or tissue under study to be seen more clearly. Contrast examinations may require you to fast for a certain period of time before the procedure. Your physician will notify you of this prior to the procedure. Other related procedures that may be used to diagnose brain disorders include X-rays , magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain , positron emission tomography (PET) scan of the brain , and cerebral arteriogram . What is the function of the brain?As part of the central nervous system (CNS), the brain is an important organ that controls thought, memory, emotion, touch, motor skills, vision, respirations, temperature, hunger and every process that regulates our body.
The brain can be divided into the cerebrum, brainstem, and cerebellum:
More specifically, other parts of the brain include the following:
What are the reasons for a CT scan of the brain?A CT of the brain may be performed to assess the brain for tumors and other lesions, injuries, intracranial bleeding, structural anomalies (e.g., hydrocephalus , infections, brain function or other conditions), particularly when another type of examination (e.g., X-rays or a physical exam) are inconclusive. A brain CT may also be used to evaluate the effects of treatment on brain tumors and to detect clots in the brain that may be responsible for strokes . Another use of brain CT is to provide guidance for brain surgery or biopsies of brain tissue. There may be other reasons for your doctor to recommend a CT of the brain. What are the risks of a CT scan of the brain?You may want to ask your doctor about the amount of radiation used during the brain CT procedure and the risks related to your particular situation. You should keep a record of your past history of radiation exposure, such as previous CT scans and other types of X-rays, so that you can inform your doctor. Risks associated with radiation exposure may be related to the cumulative number of X-ray examinations and/or treatments over a long period of time. To safeguard your health, consider the following precautions before scheduling a brain CT:
There may be other risks depending on your specific medical condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to the procedure. How do I prepare for a CT scan of the brain?If you are having computed tomography angiography (CTA) , you will be given specific instructions when you make your appointment. The following instructions will help you prepare for your brain CT:
Based on your medical condition, your doctor may request other specific steps for brain CT preparation.
Brain CT scans may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your hospital stay. Procedures may vary depending on your condition and your physician's practices. Generally, a brain CT scan involves the following steps:
While the brain CT itself causes no pain, having to lie still for the length of the procedure might cause some discomfort or pain, particularly in the case of a recent injury or invasive procedure (e.g. surgery). The technologist will use all possible comfort measures and complete the procedure as quickly as possible to minimize any discomfort or pain. What happens after a CT of the brain?If contrast media was used during your brain CT scan, you may be monitored for a period of time to check for any side effects or reactions to the contrast media. Notify your radiologist or if you experience itching, swelling, rash or difficulty breathing. If you notice any pain, redness and/or swelling at the IV site after you return home following your procedure, you should notify your doctor as this could indicate an infection or other type of reaction. Otherwise, there is no special type of care required after a CT of the brain. Most patients are permitted to resume their usual diet and activities. Your doctor may provide additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular situation. |