Cost of Brain CT Scan in India
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What is a CT scan brain?
Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain is a non-invasive diagnostic test done in a specialised centre or hospital. It consists of X-ray images of the brain taken in designated directions of the head known as 3 dimensional imaging of the brain. The scans provide detailed information about the brain and surrounding tissues.
Why is the CT scan brain done?
The brain is a vital organ of the human body with complex functions involving small cells and tissues. Therefore, the complexity of the brain tissue prompts for a detailed examination which a CT scan of the brain can easily provide. It helps in the diagnosis of the following conditions:
- Brain tumour
- Traumatic head or brain injuries
- Hydrocephalus
- Birth abnormalities
- Infections
- Intracranial bleeding
- Aneurysms
- Epilepsy
Other indications of a CT scan brain:
- To monitor the progression and prognosis of a brain disease
- To assess the effects of a treatment protocol on brain tumour
- To detect clots in the brain
- It provides guidance during brain surgeries and biopsies.
Who should get the CT scan brain done?
All individuals, male and female, children and adults can get a CT scan of the brain done when recommended by a physician or a brain doctor. Your doctor may advise you to undergo a CT scan of the brain during the following circumstances:
- When you experience symptoms like headache, delirium, vomiting, guidiness, loss of memory, inability to do daily tasks without support.
- To understand the level of injury or disease.
- Any individual with a history of seizures or epileptic attacks.
- To analyse the effect of a particular medicine on the brain tissue.
Disclaimer: It is advised to always consult your doctor for interpreting the test reports.
What precautions should I take?
- Please follow the instructions suggested by your doctor
- Inform if one is on any medications or undergoing treatment
- Show your old reports, if any
- Inform if one is pregnant / breast-feeding / menstruating.
What does the CT scan brain measure?
A CT scan of the brain is used to provide a detailed description of the brain and surrounding tissues. Brain and cranial structures such as the paranasal sinuses, ventricles, blood vessels, meninges etc., are visualised. Pathology or injuries to any of these structures is reported through the 3 dimensional scanning. The amount of blood flow reaching a particular brain tissue can also be assessed based on definitive parameters.
What all tests are included in the CT scan brain?
Brain imaging through Computed Tomography involves two types of tests depending on the requirements. The tests included are CT scan brain with contrast and CT scan brain plain or without contrast. A contrast media is a substance, commonly iodine-based, used to visualise certain areas that are difficult to analyse with plain imaging.
CT scan brain Preparation
- Before the scanning begins, one needs to inform the radiologist about any medications and specific allergies.
- Fasting for 4-6 hours in case of contrast media being used. Plain CT scan of the brain does not require fasting. You can have a proper meal before the scan.
- Pregnancy: Extra precautions need to be taken in case of pregnant, lactating, and menstruating women. Exposure to X-ray radiations poses a risk to the unborn foetus and reproductive organs.
- Diabetes: Individuals on anti-diabetic medicines need to have a meal at least two hours before the scan and medicines should be taken after consultation with the radiologist.
- In the scanning or procedure room, one needs to take off all ornaments and metal objects and wear a hospital gown.
CT scan brain Procedure
- The technician will guide you on lying down on the table in a specific position. The head may be stabilised with padded head-rests to allow minimal movement during the scan.
- The machine makes certain whirring and ticking sounds with a few lights that would be focused on you. It will also move in definite directions while scanning.
- The radiologist and technician seated in the record or control room constantly monitor any discomfort or warning signs from the patient. A bell is provided to the patient to alert the radiologist about any problems experienced during the scan.
- Images are captured and recorded by a specialised screen and converted into a two-dimensional view for reporting.
What to expect after the CT scan brain is done?
Once the imaging is complete, you will be escorted out of the room. No rest period is usually needed except after brain surgery, when some discomfort may be felt due to lying still in the scanning room. All activities can be carried out by the patient with no restrictions. Any worsening of symptoms or discomfort felt must be reported immediately. Drinking a lot of fluids and a light meal is encouraged when a contrast scan is done.
When will I get the CT scan brain report?
Images taken during the procedure are processed and compiled on the imaging screen to provide images related to the pathology detected. Reports are usually available on the same day in person or by mail.
Disclaimer: The time may vary based on your condition and the availability of the radiologist.
How will I get the CT scan brain report?
The CT scan brain results are provided by a radiologist after compilation. They are handed over to the caretaker or patient himself. One may also have them in their mail.
How to interpret the CT scan brain report?
The radiologist will provide a detailed report of the relevant findings in print format. All normal, as well as abnormal findings, are mentioned systematically. One should take the opinion of a certified neurologist or a neurosurgeon for further treatment of symptoms. You must refrain from interpreting the results yourself as it could be harmful.
Is there any risk involved?
The risk of radiation exposure to pregnant women and diabetics may be significant and should be considered only when deemed extremely important. Birth anomalies are rare but must be considered. Long-term exposure, as in the case of repeated CT scans, can prove harmful for some individuals. Children may experience discomfort and maybe irritable for sometime.
What equipment or instruments are used for a CT scan brain?
The scanning equipment consists of a doughnut-shaped scanning machine that can rotate and move in various directions according to requirements. Under this machine is a table for the patient to lie on. The table also takes the patient under the scanning machine once the procedure starts. A call bell is provided to the patient. A separate control or recording room is present near the scanning room, where a specialised recording screen receives the images captured by the scanner. Images are compiled for reporting on this screen. A digital printer provides films of the images.
How long does the CT scan brain take?
A CT scan of the brain usually takes anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the number of tissues being screened. The patient may request a small break in between the scanning if he has anxiety with the machine sounds and being alone in the room.
How do I book the CT scan brain through MFine?
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Frequently asked questions on CT scan brain
Can a CT scan brain be done in children?
Yes. A CT scan brain can be done in children when advised. A sedative may be provided to keep the child calm during the scanning to avoid any hassles. You can talk to your neurologist and radiologist to clear all doubts.