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Cranial CT scan

Definition:

A cranial CT scan is computed tomography of the head, including the skull, brain, orbits (eye sockets), and sinuses.

Alternative Names:

Head CT; CT scan - skull; CT scan - head; CT scan - orbits; CT scan - sinuses

How the test is performed:

A head CT will produce an image from the upper neck to the top of the head. It is important that once your head is in place, you do not move it during the test; if you are unable to keep your head still, immobilization may be needed. All jewelry, glasses, dentures, and other metal should be removed from the head and neck to prevent obstruction of the images.

A contrast dye may be injected into a vein to further check a mass. The mass becomes brighter with contrast dye if it has a lot of blood vessels. Contrast dye is also used to produce an image of the blood vessels of the head and brain.

The total amount of time in the CT scanner is usually a few minutes.

How to prepare for the test:

Generally, there is no preparation necessary.

How the test will feel:

The contrast dye injection may cause a slight temporary burning sensation in the arm, metallic taste in the mouth, or whole body warmth. This is a normal occurrence and will disappear in a few seconds.

Otherwise, the CT scan is painless.

Why the test is performed:

A CT scan is recommended to help:

Evaluate acute cranial-facial trauma
Diagnose an acute stroke
Check for suspected subarachnoid or intracranial hemorrhage
Check for causes of headaches
Check for causes of loss of sensory or motor function
Determine if there is an abnormal development of the head and neck

CT scans are also used to view the facial bones, jaw, and sinus cavities.

Review Date: 10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Stuart Bentley-Hibbert, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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