Contents:
Medical Video: What’s the Difference Between an MRI and a CT?
Definition
What is a CT scan head?
Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays to X-ray the head and face.
During the test, you will lie on a table placed on a CT scanner, a device shaped like a giant donut. Your head will be positioned inside the scanner. The scanner emits X-rays to your head. Each scanner rotation captures photos of your head and face. One part of the scanner can capture X-rays from another position. The photos will be stored in one folder and will be printed later. In some cases, a special dye will be injected into the veins of your arm or into the spine. The fluid facilitates the body's structure and organs to be X-rayed by CT scans. The fluid may also be used to check blood flow and examine tumors, inflammatory areas, or nerve damage. The CT scan of the head informs about the condition of the eyes, jawbone, nasal sinuses, and the inside of the ear. If this area is a concern, a special CT scan needs to be done. A head CT scan may also be performed to monitor headaches.
When do I have to undergo a CT scan of the head?
A head CT scan is recommended to help doctors diagnose or monitor the following conditions:
- birth with head or brain defects (congenital)
- brain infection
- brain tumor
- fluid buildup in the brain (hydrocephalus)
- craniosynostosis
- trauma to the head and face
- stroke or bleeding in the brain
A head CT scan is also performed to monitor the causes:
- changes in attitude or mind
- fainted
- headache, when other symptoms occur
- hearing loss (in some patients)
- symptoms of damage to the brain, such as vision problems, muscle weakness, numbness, hearing loss, speech problems, or swelling.
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing a CT scan of the head?
Sometimes the results of a CT scan can vary depending on the type of x-ray you do, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or ultrasound scan because CT scans produce different angles. Children who will do a CT scan need special instructions for X-rays. If the child is too young or afraid, the doctor may give special medication to make your child feel relaxed (sedative). If children are scheduled for a CT scan, contact your doctor for more information. MRI may provide information after an x-ray of the head and face.
Process
What should I do before undergoing a CT scan of the head?
Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant, because X-ray X-rays are not recommended for pregnant women. If you weigh more than 150 kg, find out the limit of CT scan machine weight because some tools have their own limitations. You will be asked to take off the jewelry and wear special clothing from the hospital, happy X-ray. If needed, special fluids will be injected, and you must pay attention to extra prevention. For example, people who take diabetes drugs such as metformin (glucophage) must take certain steps, tell their doctor if you are taking the drug. Also tell your doctor if you experience a reaction to the liquid.
What is the process of CT scan head?
CT scans are usually carried out by a radiologist. The x-ray results are usually read by the radiologist who will write the scan report. Other doctors will also review the results of your CT scan. You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, and hearing aids. Wear comfortable loose clothing. During the test, you will be asked to lie on an x-ray table. The strap will hold your head, but your face will not be closed.
This x-ray table rotates in the direction of the scanner, and the scanner will rotate on your body. This X-ray table will rotate while the scanner captures the image. You will hear a click or buzz from the scanner. It's important to lie down when an x-ray is done. During an x-ray, you may be alone in that room. But the radiologist will monitor you through the window. You can still communicate with the radiologist through a two-way intercom. X-rays are performed for 30 to 60 minutes. Long time spent on X-ray preparation. The actual scanning process only lasts a few seconds.
What should I do after undergoing a CT scan of the head?
You can do normal activities as usual. Doing some exercise may be needed and the doctor will explain the reasons why the sport is important.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
Complete X-ray results are usually received by a doctor within 1-2 days.
| CT scan of face and head | ||
| Normal: | The brain, blood vessels, skull, and face have a normal size, shape and position | |
| There are no foreign objects that grow or settle | ||
| No bleeding | ||
| Abnormal: | Tumor or renal growth occurs in the brain. There are foreign objects such as glass or metal. Skull bones or facial bones damaged or look abnormal. The 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 ventricle of the brain towards the cerebrospinal where fluid flows is enlarged. One part of the brain experiences swelling (edema) or another change that can be a stroke. | ||
| Sinus is filled with fluid and accumulates. | ||
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
