CT SCAN OF FACE & BRAIN

A CT scan of the face and brain refers to the diagnostic imaging test that the CT (Computed Tomography) scan employs to capture detailed cross-section images of the brain and face. This test is particularly used to assess the scope of injuries, diagnose abnormalities, and evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments provided. 

What is a CT scan of Face and Brain? 

The CT scan technique is a composition of the X ray technology with that of computers to obtain images of the inner composition of the face and head region. It is performed with the patient lying on a table while the table moves through an opening in a CT scanner. The rotation of the scanner allows for images to be taken from numerous angles. Different body tissues absorb the X rays differently and the computer captures the information to develop detailed images of the head and face. 

Types of CT scans of Face and Brain 

Some common types of CT scans of the face and brain include:  

• Non-contrast CT scan: This is the default and most frequently conducted CT scan; it assesses the different components of the face and brain and their respective functions. 
• With contrast dye CT scan: This scan is unique in that it employs a contrasting dye to capture specific portions of the face and head. 
• High resolution CT scan: These types of CT scans display the utmost detail of the internals of both face and head. 

List of Parameters Considered During the CT scan of Face and Brain

While scanning the face and brain using CT technology, providers do check: 

• Any injuries or issues that are abnormal concerning the face and brain. 
• Any abnormality changes and its severity.  
• Tumorous, cystic, or any other changes’ presence. 
• Any inflammation or infection processes underway. 
• Any improvement of existing medical interventions. 

Reasons for Taking a CT scan of Face and Brain

A scan of the face and head may be recommended for these reasons:  

• Assessment of injury degree of the head or face.  
• Assessment for stroke or brain tumours.  
• Evaluate therapeutic effectiveness of sinusitis or meningitis treatment.  
• Assessment of congenital facial or intracranial anomalies. 

When and Who Needs to Take a CT scan of Face and Brain? 

The following conditions may indicate the need to perform a CT scan for the Face and Brain: 

• Having a history of head or facial trauma. 
• Stroke-like symptoms or a brain tumour. 
• Facial or brain Congenital Deformities. 
• Sinus or Meningitis infections. 
• Infections like vasculitis. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

These are the advantages of a CT scan of the face and brain:  

• Nice and condense assessment of diagnosis done.  
• Effective evaluation of treatment received by the patients.  
• Less pain and chance of complications. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with CT scan of Face and Brain

These are the common diseases and conditions detected through the use of CT scan of face and brain: 

• Stroke or brain cancer. 
• Sinusitis or meningitis 
• Hereditary malformations of the face or brain. 
• Inflammatory disorders like vasculitis. 
• Trauma to the head or face region. 

Preparing for the CT scan of Face and Brain

As part of preparation for the CT scan of the face and brain, patients must: 

• Take off any jewellery or items of clothing that may obstruct the test. 
• Not consume anything for a couple of hours leading up to the test. 
• Make sure to let their healthcare provider know of any allergies or medical conditions that may be relevant. 
• Show up earlier than required so that they can fill out any forms pertaining to the test and get ready. 

Pre-requisites 

While there are no explicit pre-requisites for a CT scan of the face and brain, it is advisable for patients to: 

• Notify their healthcare provider about any allergies or medical histories which may be significant. 
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything some time prior to the examination. 

Best Time to Take the CT scan of Face and Brain 

Although there is no restriction to the time that a CT scan of the face and brain can be done, it is most prudent to schedule the test for when the patient is in good health and can keep still for the entire duration of the test. 

Eligibility 

The following patients are generally candidates for a CT scan of the face and brain: 

• Patients older than 6 months 
• Patients who can remain motionless for the duration of the test 
• Patients who are not currently pregnant or lactating 

Procedure for Taking a CT scan of Face and Brain 

Below are the steps for performing a CT scan of the face and brain: 

1. While facing upwards, the patient is positioned on a slidable table that moves into the CT scanner. 
2. The CT scanner encircles the patient to photograph from various perspectives. 
3. The patient must remain motionless and may be required to refrain from breathing for a few seconds. 
4. On average, this study will take between 15 and 30 minutes to complete. 

Caution Before Taking the Test  

Before undergoing any tests, patients should declare to their doctor any known allergies or health issues that might affect the test. These patients should also limit food or drink intake for a few hours prior to the test.