Name of the Procedure:

Head CT for Trauma
Common Name(s): Head CT, Brain CT
Technical/Medical Term: Computed Tomography (CT) Scan of the Head

Summary

A Head CT is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of the head, including the brain, skull, and surrounding tissues. It is commonly used to assess head injuries.

Purpose

To diagnose and evaluate head injuries, such as fractures, bleeding, or swelling in the brain.

Indications

• Visible signs of head trauma (e.g., cuts, bruises, or deformities)
• Symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or unconsciousness after a head injury
• Monitoring for complications such as bleeding or swelling

Preparation

• Most patients do not need special preparation.
• Removal of metallic objects from the head area is required.
• Patient may need to fast for a few hours, if contrast dye is used.

Procedure Description

1. Arrival: Patient arrives at radiology.
2. Positioning: Patient lies on a CT table, usually on the back.
3. Scanning: The table slides into the CT scanner. The scanner rotates around the head to capture images.
4. Contrast Dye: If necessary, an IV may be used to administer a contrast dye.
5. Completion: The images are reviewed by a radiologist.

Tools/Equipment: CT Scanner, IV for contrast dye (if used)
Anesthesia/Sedation: Generally not required

Duration

Typically takes 10-30 minutes, depending on the need for contrast dye.

Setting

Usually performed in a hospital's radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist (interprets the images)
• Radiologic Technologist (operates the CT scan)
• Nurse (if IV contrast is used)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Exposure to low levels of radiation.
• Possible Complications: Allergic reaction to contrast dye, if used (rare and manageable).

Benefits

• Rapid and accurate diagnosis of head injuries.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick procedure.

Recovery

• Usually, there is no recovery time needed.
• If contrast dye is used, patients may need to drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate it from their body.
• Follow-up appointments as recommended by the care provider.

Alternatives

• MRI Scan: Provides more detailed images of soft tissues but is more time-consuming and expensive.
• X-rays: Less detailed and generally not useful for detailed brain imaging.
• Physical Examination: Initial method of assessment, but not as definitive.

Pros and Cons:

• MRI: More detailed, no radiation, but longer and potentially claustrophobic.
• X-rays: Less detail, cannot visualize brain tissue effectively.
• Physical Exam: Quick, no risk, but limited in detecting internal injuries.

Patient Experience

• The patient may hear whirring or clicking sounds during the scan.
• If contrast dye is used, a warm sensation may be felt.
• Generally, painless with no required recovery time.
• Pain management or comfort measures typically not necessary.