Any kind of scan or study involving your head can be a little intimidating, so when your healthcare provider recommended a CT scan of the head, you may have been slightly alarmed.
It helps to know that a CT (computed tomography) scan is painless and non-invasive, and that CT scans are one of healthcare’s most valuable diagnostic tools, helping provide better care for patients.
Let’s learn more about this type of scan that can help save your life.
What is a head CT scan?
A head CT scan is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging study that uses a series of special X-ray machines to create detailed images of the brain and surrounding structures.
These images (sometimes called slices) can provide more information about brain tissue and brain structures than other scans, especially when it comes to brain injuries and brain diseases.
Why would my healthcare provider recommend a head CT scan?
Head CT scans can be used to assess injuries to the head, possible tumors, lesions, bleeding, or structural anomalies (like hydrocephalus), infections, brain function, or other conditions.
Head CT scans are sometimes used when other types of examinations, like X-rays or physical exams, are inconclusive.
How does a CT scan create detailed images of my head?
A CT scan uses a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your head.
These images are processed by a computer to create cross-sectional slices, which provide detailed views of your head, brain, and skull.
The computer then assembles these slices to create a comprehensive 3D image, allowing healthcare providers to assess internal structures with great precision.
Preparing for your head CT scan
Preparing for your head CT scan is a relatively simple process. If your healthcare provider has ordered your head CT scan with IV contrast, do not eat anything three hours before your scan.
Also, it is a good idea to drink clear liquids. Diabetics should eat a light breakfast or lunch three hours before the scan.
It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes as you may need to change into a gown before the scan.
What should I do and not do before a head CT scan?
Here are a few things to do and not to do before your head CT scan:
Do:
- Follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider or the imaging center.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially if you have allergies or are pregnant.
- If instructed, follow fasting instructions, especially if contrast dye will be used.
- Wear comfortable clothing and remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, before the scan.
- Try to relax.
Don’t:
- If fasting is required, don’t eat or drink anything for the scan.
- Don’t wear clothing with metal zippers or snaps, as they may interfere with the scan.
- Don’t forget to inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant, as certain scans may pose risks to the fetus.
Are there any dietary restrictions I need to follow?
Ask your healthcare provider if there are any dietary restrictions you need to follow before your head CT scan.
If your healthcare provider has ordered a head CT scan with IV contrast, you may be asked to fast for a period of time before the scan.
Am I allowed to keep taking my prescription medications and supplements?
Before your head CT scan, make sure to ask your healthcare provider if you should take your medications or supplements.
The answer will most likely be yes, but check with your healthcare provider to make sure.
It’s also a good idea to bring a list of your medications to your appointment, including the name of the medication, the dosage, and the dose frequency.
During your head CT
For your peace of mind, it’s good to know what will happen during a head CT scan.
The scan itself is much simpler to undergo than you may imagine, and it will be over practically before you know it.
You’ll lie on a narrow table that slides into the center of a donut-shaped CT scanner. While inside the scanner, the machine’s X-ray beam will rotate around your body part being scanned.
How long does a head CT scan typically take?
It usually takes about 5-10 minutes for a CT scan of the head, although more time will be spent beforehand to get you into the correct position to be ready for the scan.
For many people, a head CT scan takes about 30 minutes, from start to finish.
How will I be positioned for a head CT scan?
Typically, the patient lies on his or her back on a movable table that slides into and out of the donut-shaped CT scanner.
An X-ray tube will rotate around the head and the table will gradually move during the data collection.
What should I expect during the scan?
During a head CT scan, the table on which you’re lying will move during the scan and the CT scanner will move within the donut-shaped casing around your head and body.
You will be asked to lay still during the scan and also hold your breath for short periods.
How soon will my results be available?
It’s natural to want to know the results of your head CT scan as soon as possible. Usually, complete results are ready for your healthcare provider within one to two days and they will then share the results with you.
What if my head CT results show something unusual?
During and after your scan, your imaging technologist will not tell you if they think something is concerning, based on your images.
If the radiologist notices something on your scan that requires emergency treatment, they will follow-up with you and your healthcare provider immediately.
Your healthcare provider will usually receive your CT scan results within 24 hours of your scan.
Who will discuss my CT scan results with me? What should I ask?
Once they receive the results from your head CT scan, your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
Ask your healthcare provider to be as specific as they can be about the results and to use terminology you can fully understand.
If there is an issue, you can ask about being referred to a specialist, and what treatments and medications are available for such a condition.
Make sure you understand exactly what your healthcare provider is saying and what they think is the best plan for you in the future.
How to schedule an appointment with us
Our goal is to offer you and your healthcare provider the most informative results possible, and we make it easy for you to get an appointment.
With numerous locations across South Jersey, you’ll find us conveniently located near major highways and key bridges in the region.
We’ll ensure the entire scheduling process is as effortless as possible for you. Above all, we are here to help you.
Reach out to us at any of the following locations to book an appointment:
- Haddonfield Office – Haddonfield, NJ
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Medford Office – Medford, NJ
- Mount Laurel Office – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Route 73 (Voorhees) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
- Sewell (Washington Township) Office – Sewell, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- Voorhees (Carnie Boulevard) – Voorhees Township, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
Learn more about the board-certified, subspecialized radiologists who read, analyze and interpret the findings here at South Jersey Radiology.
Frequently Asked Questions
A head CT scan is a medical imaging study that uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of your head’s structures.
Your healthcare provider might recommend a head CT scan to diagnose conditions, to monitor treatment, or to assess an injury.
Before a head CT scan, you should follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider, such as fasting or adjusting medications.
You may need to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before your scan, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
A head CT scan typically takes about 10 to 30 minutes, depending on the specifics of what’s being examined.
Your head CT scan results are usually available within a few days, and in some cases, urgent results can be expedited for you.
If something unusual is found, your doctor will discuss the findings, possible implications, and next steps with you.
Your healthcare provider will discuss your CT scan results with you, and you should ask about any findings, implications, and recommended next steps.