CT BRAIN PLAIN

CT Brain Plain Overview

CT Brain Plain is a type of imaging test performed without the use of an incision or injection in order to cut and observe the internal parts of the brain. Computed Tomography (CT) uses broad X-ray beams in order to capture different images of the brain from different angles without the use of any contrasting substances. This imaging technique assists doctors in diagnosing as well as observing multiple brain related disorders that include strokes, brain tumors, and even the bleeding of the brain.  

What is CT Brain Plain? 

Using Computerized Tomography (CT), CT Brain Plain is a type of process that uses contrasting substances alongside X-rays to capture facial structures and create detailed images of the internal human brain. During the imaging test, the patient is required to lie down on a flat surface that moves into the CT scanner, which is a giant machinery shaped in the form of a doughnut. After this, the CT scanner rotates around the patient's head capturing X-ray images of the patient's head at different angles. The captured images are then reconstructed to form a full picture and displayed on a computer where a trained interpret them. 

Types of CT Brain Plain 

There are no divisions of loss of contrast CT Brain Plain, but there are options where the exam is performed with the use of contrast media and without them. The current section discusses the test without the use of contrast (plain) media. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT Brain Plain

While performing the test, the technician and the radiologist consider the following parameters:  

• Placing and attending to the patient’s needs 
• Reduction of radiation exposure 
• Quality and resolution of the image produced 
• Components of the brain and accompanying pathology and lesions 
• Presence of bleeding, Edema or other injurious processes 

Reasons of Performing CT Brain Plain

Usually, CT Brain Plain is indicated for the following purposes:  

• Assessing head trauma or injury sustained recently  
• Confirming cerebrovascular accident or TIA  
• Checking and monitoring for bleeding or hematoma in the skull  
• Screening for symptoms of a brain neoplasm or a cyst  
• Assessing treatment efficacy over a brain pathological condition 

When and Who Needs a CT Brain Plain? 

A CT Brain Plain is done when: 

• There’s a case of acute head injury or trauma 
• A patient has Sudden severe headache, especially if mixed with confusion, vomiting, or seizures 
• Weakness or numbness in face, arm or legs 
• Difficulty with speaking or even understanding speech 
• Changes or loss in vision 
• Loss of balance or dizziness 
• Tumour, cyst or Abscess investigation 
• Measuring treatment effectiveness of a brain condition 

Benefits of the Test

These included:  

• Low risk and easy to perform  
• Good internal images of the structures in the brain  
• Ability to see acute bleeding or any other injury  
• Follow-up of brain diseases and treatment results 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT Brain Plain

The most common disease processes done using CT Brain Plain include:  

• Stroke or TIA  
• Tumorous or cystic lesions of the brain  
• Bleeding or hematoma in the brain  
• Traumatic brain injury  
• Aneurysms and arteriovenous malformations (AVM) 

Preparation for CT Brain Plain

Before the test, patients should: 

• Take off any metallic items like jewellery, glasses, and hairpins. 
• Put on loose and comfortable attire. 
• Tell the technician about any medical implants like pacemakers or artificial joints. 
• Refrain from eating and drinking a few hours prior to the test, if that is what the doctor or technician requires. 

Pre-requisites: 

CT Brain Plain has no specific pre-requisites. However, it is expected that patients: 

• Have the capability to remain still on the exam table for the entire test duration. 
• Notify the technician about any allergies, medical disorders, or any adverse reactions to X-ray contrast agents during the imaging procedure. 

Best Time to Take the CT Brain Plain: 

This test can be done at any time, although it is best done shortly after the onset of symptoms for diagnosing acute conditions. 

Eligibility: 

CT Brain Plain is usually suggested for patients who have suffered head trauma, have symptoms of possible brain abnormality, or have increased chances of developing certain neurological disorders. However, some patients with medical implants or conditions will need to avoid this test or make other preparations beforehand. 

Procedure: 

The steps of the exam are as follows:  

1. The patient is comfortably laid on the examination chair.  
2. The patient's head is oriented appropriately to achieve the best quality picture possible.  
3. The technologist gives a description of the operation and directions on how to proceed.  
4. X-ray pictures are taken of the patient’s head from various angles as the CT Scanner travels around it.  
5. The total duration of the test is approximately 10 - 15 minutes.  
6. Once the exam is done, the patient is given a chance to leave, while the CT images are automatically reconstructed and analyzed by the radiologist. 

Caution Before Taking the Test: 

Make sure to share with the technician: 

• Any medical implants or devices that could obstruct the test 
• Past reactions to X-ray contrast agents (not applicable for CT Brain Plain) 
• Whether pregnant or assigned to breastfeed 
• Any other medical related issues