CT of the head is a modern diagnostic method that combines X-ray equipment and computers. It helps to identify injuries, diseases of the brain and its vessels, as well as various injuries of the skull.
Indications for
What does a CT scan of the brain show? Using this examination method, you can visualize the skull, additional sinuses, cerebral vessels, so it is used in the following cases:
- suspected bruising of head tissue;
- skull fractures ;
- acute epidural hematomas;
- hands and brain hygromas;
- post-traumatic hydrocephalus or encephalitis.
In addition, a CT scan of the brain is performed to confirm acute circulatory disorders of the head, which happens with ischemia or stroke, to detect blood clots and hemorrhages. This examination is also used to diagnose focal neoplasms and skull malformations, to detect inflammation in the paranasal sinuses, as well as to evaluate aneurysms and conduct targeted biopsies.
Contraindications
CT of the brain can be carried out using special contrast agents, so it is not recommended for use with a tendency to allergic reactions, especially with increased sensitivity to iodine-containing drugs. Also, computed tomography is not performed with elevated serum creatinine, severe bronchial asthma, or in the presence of hypothyroidism.
Alternative methods of examination are recommended for pregnant women, as there is a risk of exposure to the fetus. Young children also have a higher sensitivity to radiation, so they undergo a CT scan of the brain only for strict indications. It is worth noting that x-ray irradiation increases the risk of cancer, so unjustified computed tomography is unacceptable.
In addition, very obese patients may not fit in the opening of the tomograph, or their weight may become an obstacle to moving a special table on which the patient should be placed during the examination.
An important drawback of CT in the brain is that it is impossible to identify the inflammatory process in the meninges with it.
CT Benefits
Computed tomography is absolutely painless. It is a non-invasive and highly accurate examination method, which allows you to simultaneously obtain images of bones, tissues and blood vessels. Unlike X-ray examination, CT gives very clear and detailed images.
CT of the brain in Moscow is carried out in various diagnostic centers equipped with modern equipment. This is the medical center "Capital", and OJSC "Medicine", and the Center for computer and magnetic resonance imaging
and etc.
With it, you can be examined not only qualitatively, but also quickly, which in some clinical cases can save the patient’s life, especially with regard to head injuries that are accompanied by internal hemorrhages.
In addition , computed tomography allows doctors to obtain real-time images of internal structures, conduct targeted biopsies, and, if necessary, separate minimally invasive procedures. An advantage is that this examination in most cases does not require special preparation. It is also less sensitive to patient movements (unlike MRI) and does not require breath holding.