CT Scan of Brain/ Pediatric Brain/Skull
Contrast dye may be injected to enhance image clarity, particularly for blood vessels and certain brain structures. Allergy checks are essential before administering the dye.
Specialists:
Key Points of a Comprehensive CT Scan of the Brain/Pediatric Brain/Skull
1. Preparation:
Patient history is reviewed for allergies, medications, and any prior reactions to contrast dye. Sedation may be considered for pediatric patients to help them stay still during the scan.
2. Use of Contrast Material:
Contrast dye may be injected to enhance image clarity, particularly for blood vessels and certain brain structures. Allergy checks are essential before administering the dye.
3. Scan Procedure
The patient lies on a motorized table, and the head is positioned in the CT scanner. Remaining still is crucial for clear images. The scan takes only a few minutes.
4. Imaging and Reconstruction:
The CT scanner captures multiple cross-sectional images of the brain or skull, which are then reconstructed into detailed 3D images for thorough analysis.
5. Post-Scan Care:
After the scan, particularly if sedation or contrast dye was used, patients may need monitoring and should stay hydrated to flush out the dye.
6. Radiologist Analysis:
A specialized radiologist reviews the images to diagnose conditions like tumors, hemorrhages, or congenital anomalies and prepares a report for the referring physician.
7. Follow-Up:
Based on the scan results, follow-up may include consultations with specialists or additional imaging to monitor any changes over time.