CT or Computed Tomography Scan (a.k.a. Computed Axial Tomography) of the brain is an advanced method of imaging the cranial cavity and brain. X-rays are pointed towards the area to be pictured at different angles which merge together to create an image. These X-rays are not stationary in position, rather they are rotated around the body from time to time. Special digital sensors are present on the CT scan machine which detect the signals created by X-rays.
The computer attached with a CT scan uses complex calculations of the values generated by the signals to make a ‘2-D slice’ of an image. Depending on the need for slices, X-rays can be taken multiple times in this manner. Image slices are a very effective way to detect the presence of medical problems anywhere inside the body.
Chennai CT Scan Centers for Brain CT Scan
Here are some of the diagnostic centers in Chennai which offer Brain CT scans:
| Diagnostic Center | Area | City |
|---|---|---|
| Exo Path Labs | T Nagar | Chennai |
Brain CT Scan Cost in Chennai
Brain CT scan cost is dependent on several factors like cost of imaging equipment, skills and expertise of the radiologist, location of the diagnostic center, etc. Average charges incurred in a Brain CT scan can be seen here:
| Diagnostic Center | Test Name | MRP | Offer Price | Get Offer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Exo Path Labs, T Nagar, Chennai. | CT Scan Brain | Rs. | Rs. 2000 | Book Online |
* Above mentioned offers can only be booked online.
Why is Brain CT Scan Needed?
Because of their high degree of accuracy, a CT scan finds use to diagnose many medical problems, especially in relation to the brain and associated structures. If your doctor suspects the following problems, a Brain CT scan may be suggested:
- Brain aneurysms
- Uncontrolled bleeding inside the brain (brain hemorrhage)
- Stroke
- In head injuries
- Facial trauma and fractures
- Blood clot in the blood supply of brain
- Headache of unknown origin
- Sudden loss of consciousness without apparent reason
- Focal neurological deficit
- Seizures (epileptic attack)
- Tumors in the head
How to Prepare for the Scan?
- Do inform your physician and radiologist about any pre-existing medical conditions you may be having, like cardiac disease, breathing problems, hearing problems, diabetes, etc.
- If you are on any medication presently, keep your doctor in the loop.
- A history of allergies is very important. Some CT procedures require the use of a contrast medium, which can be a cause of hypersensitivity in some people. If you have a previous history of such an allergy, inform your physician.
- If you are a pregnant woman, you would be suggested an alternative to CT scan, since exposure to X-rays is harmful for babies.
- In cases where contrast medium is required, you will have to fast for at least 6-8 hours before the imaging starts. Otherwise, you can eat as you please.
How is Brain CT Scan Done?
- On the day of imaging, you will be given a soft gown to wear and asked to remove all metallic materials like hearing aids, hair pins, clips, etc.
- Before the actual imaging begins, a contrast medium may be injected inside your body via an IV line in the arm.
- After this, you will be taken to the CT scan room and made to lie down on a movable table. This table passes through a doughnut shaped device known as the gantry. This is the place which will image the brain.
- For a CT scan to work, the body must be able to absorb and reflect X-rays at varying degrees. Soft tissues like the brain absorb more X-rays and reflect less as compared to hard tissues like bone. Thus, the image created shows up in different shades of gray.
- X-ray beams and X-ray detectors continuously move around your head at the same speed to catch the new signals produced. After every round, a new slice of the image is created.
- With the latest developments in technology, today’s CT scan machines are fast and efficient in imaging and producing results.
- On an average, it takes about 15-20 minutes to complete a Brain CT scan.
A Brain CT scan is a quick and precise method of imaging the brain and associated structures. It has high utility during emergencies when a rapid assessment of neurological problems or head trauma is required by the doctor. Though it uses ionizing radiation, which is less safer than an MRI scan, it still remains a standard testing procedure to create pictures of the internal structures of the body. It is mostly contraindicated in pregnant women, but it can still be used in cases where the abdominal cavity can be avoided. But this decision can only be taken by the radiologist after carefully weighing the risks versus benefits.