Computed Tomography (CT) of the Brain and Spine

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What is CT of the brain and spine?

A CT (Computerised Tomography) scan is a non-invasive X-ray scan that produces images of the brain and spine. During a CT scan, a beam of X-ray energy is aimed at the brain and spine. The beam moves around in a circle around the body, allowing several images of the brain and spine to be taken from various angles. The images are ready in about 10 to 30 minutes.

A CT scan will allow the doctor to see if there are any injuries or diseases to the brain and spine.

CT scans may be done with or without contrast. A contrast is a substance that is either injected into the patient’s blood vessels in order to clarify the blood vessels, tumours and infection.

Why would one need a CT of the brain and spine?

Instances when your doctor may order a CT brain scan include:

Detection of bleeding, brain injury and skull fractures
Suspicion of bleeding caused by aneurysm
Suspicion of blood clots caused by stroke
Detection of enlarged brain cavities
Detection of brain tumours
Diseases of malformation of the skull
Guide diagnostic procedures

Instances when your doctor may order a CT spine scan include:

Assessing spinal injuries
Evaluation of spine before and after surgery
Measuring of bone density in the spine
Assess for congenital abnormalities of the spine e.g. scoliosis
Detection of tumours in the spine
Guide diagnostic procedures

Are there any risks of a CT of the brain and spine?

CT scans utilise much more radiation than an X-ray. However, the risks are minimal and generally outweigh the benefits of obtaining critical information on your brain and spine. If you have taken other CT scans or X-rays prior, it is important to let your doctor know so that they may keep track of your exposure to radiation.

Pregnancy during a CT scan may lead to birth defects; hence it is important to let your doctor know if you may be pregnant. If you are breastfeeding and are worried about the possible implications, you can speak to your doctor about it.

You should also let the doctor know if you are allergic to any contrast dyes.

What can I expect during a CT of the brain and spine?

Before the scan:

Take off your clothes and don on a hospital gown.
Remove all metal objects such as jewellery, watches, belts and spectacles.
You may also be asked to fast for a few hours prior to your CT scan.

During the scan:

You will be lying on a narrow table during the scan.
You will have to be still during the scan. Straps and pillows may be used to help you to remain still.
You will be able to see your technologist in the next room, as well as speak to him or her through speakers in the CT scanner.
You may be asked to hold your breath at certain points to avoid blurring the images.
If a contrast dye is used, you may feel some side effects such as nausea, a salty or metallic taste in the mouth, or a headache.

After the scan:

You will be able to carry on with your normal routine after the scan.
You may be asked to drink plenty of fluids if you have taken a contrast dye.
If a contrast dye is used, you will be monitored for a period of time to ensure that there are no allergic reactions to the dye.

How do I prepare for a CT of the brain and spine?

Some ways to prepare for a CT scan:

BRAIN

SPINE

NERVES