CT Scan of Brain

Definition

A CT scan of brain (computed tomography of the head) uses a thin beam of X-rays and powerful computers to create detailed cross-sectional images of your skull, brain tissue, and blood vessels.

CT vs CAT Scan of Brain

There is no difference—CT and CAT are two names for the same technology.

CT vs MRI Brain Scan

1. Non-contrast head CT – First choice in trauma and acute stroke.
2. CT brain with IV contrast – Highlights tumors and infections.
3. CT perfusion & CT angiography – Maps blood flow and vessel blockages.

• Detect bleeding, tumors, skull fractures, hydrocephalus
• Monitor post-surgical changes after tumor removal or shunt placement

Common Symptoms That Prompt a Scan

• Sudden, severe headache (“worst of my life”)
• Head injury after a fall or accident
• Stroke signs—face droop, arm weakness, slurred speech
• New or worsening seizures

Emergency vs Elective

• Emergency: Head trauma, acute stroke, loss of consciousness
• Elective: Chronic headaches, follow-up on known lesions

Special Groups

• Pediatric: Child must weigh ≥15 kg; radiation dose is minimized.
• Geriatric: Kidney function (creatinine) checked if contrast is planned.

• Fast diagnosis in emergencies—door-to-image in < 15 minutes at Cadabams Diagnostics
• High-resolution bone and calcium visualization
• Lower cost than MRI—ideal for routine screening and follow-up

• Stroke – differentiates ischemic vs hemorrhagic within minutes
• Traumatic brain injury – shows bleeds, contusions, fractures
• Brain tumors & cysts – reveals size, location, and mass effect

• Fasting 4 hours only if contrast is planned
• Remove jewelry, hairpins, hearing aids
• Inform staff about pregnancy or claustrophobia (rarely an issue with modern open-bore scanners)

• Doctor’s prescription with clinical indication
• Valid ID for registration
• Creatinine report (within 4 weeks) if intravenous contrast is required

• After trauma or sudden symptoms – do not delay; we accept walk-ins 24×7.
• Morning slots are best for patients needing contrast because overnight fasting is easier.

• Adults & children ≥15 kg
• Pregnancy: Scan only if the benefit clearly outweighs the risk; lead shielding provided.

1. Check-in & vitals – ID verified, weight & creatinine reviewed.
2. Positioning – Lie on the table; head rests in a soft holder.
3. Scan – Table glides in and out of the doughnut-shaped scanner; stay still for 5 minutes.
4. Contrast injection (if ordered) – quick IV, may feel warmth or metallic taste.

• Avoid if pregnant unless emergency; inform the technologist.
• Contrast allergy monitoring – 15-minute post-scan observation for any rash or swelling.

• Radiation dose: ~2 mSv—the same as 8 months of natural background exposure; risk is low but cumulative.
• Contrast allergy: <1 % develop rash or itching; severe reactions are extremely rare.
• Limitations:
• Very small lesions (< 5 mm) can be missed.
• Bone near the back of the head (posterior fossa) sometimes creates shadows.