Computed tomography of the head (brain) is an X-ray examination that uses X-rays. They are performed when there is a suspicion of intracranial bleeding, brain abscess, trauma to the head and spinal canal. Other indications for head tomography include diseases of the central nervous system, vascular changes in the brain (hematoma, infarction), spinal cord injuries, diseases of the bones of the skull, pharynx and larynx, congenital defects of the central nervous system.
Computed tomography of the headis notan examinationinvasive, although sometimes an intravenous contrast agent (contrast) must be given to better visualize abnormalities (e.g. . with neoplastic lesions).
Contents:
- Computed tomography of the head - what does it detect?
- Computed tomography of the head - with or without contrast?
- Computed tomography of the head - the course of the examination
- Computed tomography of the head - price
- Computed tomography of the head - contraindications
Computed tomography of the head - what does it detect?
Indications for a CT of the head include head injuries, suspicion of intracranial bleeding, suspicion of a brain tumor. Thanks to this diagnostic method, it is possible to detect diseases such as:
- meningitis
- brain abscess
- brain hematoma
- stroke
- brain tumors, e.g. glioma, meningioma, lymphoma
- epilepsy
- hydrocephalus
- Alzheimer's disease
- neoplasms in the area of the nose and sinuses
Computed tomography of the head - with or without contrast?
The test can be performed with or without contrast. Contrast is a coloring agent that is introduced into the body either intravenously or orally as a fluid. It is to better highlight possible changes in the image of the organ. In the case of head tomography with contrast, the patient should previously measure creatinine in the blood (thanks to the examination, it is possible to assess the efficiency of the kidneys, which the contrast agent may burden). He should also drink 1.5 liters of fluids 12 hours before the test.
The doctor decides whether the computed tomography will be performed with or without contrast. As a standard, the contrast is given in the case of suspected neoplastic changes. Sometimes the doctor supervising the test during the test decides about administering the contrast -e.g. when he notices unclear changes that require better visibility.
Contrast agent can cause side effects, which are usually mild and not harmful to your he alth. These may be allergic reactions, e.g. urticaria, itching, and in extreme cases, renal failure. To quickly flush the contrast out of the body, doctors recommend drinking plenty of water after the examination.
Computed tomography of the head - the course of the examination
The test usually lasts from several to several dozen minutes. Young children are given sedatives before the examination, and general anesthesia may also be used. No need to undress.
The patient lies on a special movable table, which is inserted into the device (the so-called gantry). A lamp that produces X-rays ( X-ray ) moves around the body on a special frame. The radiation dose is relatively high, therefore the test should not be repeated any number of times.
You must remain still during the examination. The doctor tells you what to do in order. Most tomographs are equipped with the so-called intercom for voice communication between the patient and the doctor or technician. The device also has diodes that light up when sending X-rays - you must not breathe when the light is on.
After the examination, complications related to the administration of a contrast agent may appear. Report any undesirable symptoms to your doctor immediately.
This will be useful to youComputed tomography of the head - price
The cost of privately performed computed tomography of the head ranges from PLN 200 to 400, depending on the facility.
Computed tomography of the head - contraindications
Contraindication to the test may be claustrophobia, as well as an allergy, or if you have had any allergic reactions to medications or contrast agents in the past. Other contraindications are bleeding tendency (haemorrhagic diathesis) and pregnancy. If you are in the second half of your menstrual cycle and you suspect that you may be pregnant, you cannot undergo a CT scan then either. It is performed on an empty stomach - you must not eat at least 6 hours before that.