Brain CT scan (head CT)

Brain CT scan in Tunis, Tunisia · Centre Urbain Nord

Brain CT scan in Tunis: a fast examination of the brain and skull, widely used in emergencies (stroke, head injury, sudden severe headache).

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What is it?

A brain CT scan is an imaging test of the brain and skull bones using X-rays. It is very fast: the images are acquired in a few seconds, which makes it the test of choice in many emergency situations. It can look for bleeding in the brain, a skull fracture after a blow, signs of a stroke, or a cause for a sudden, unusual headache. It is often done without an injection; the iodinated contrast agent is used depending on the doctor's question. Depending on the request, the examination can be extended in the same session to another area: the cervical spine and the junction between the skull and the spine (after an injury), the sinuses, the temporal bones or the chest.

When is it indicated?

Suspected stroke

In an emergency, it quickly distinguishes a bleed from a blocked artery, which guides treatment.

Head injury

After a blow to the head, it looks for a fracture or bleeding inside the skull.

Sudden, unusual headache

A very intense headache that comes on suddenly must be checked for bleeding around the brain.

Fainting, confusion, seizure

It looks for a brain lesion that could explain the symptoms, alongside the doctor's examination.

When MRI is not possible

With a non-compatible pacemaker or severe claustrophobia, a CT scan provides an initial answer.

Preparation

1Tell us if you are pregnant or think you might be: a CT scan uses X-rays

2Remove glasses, earrings, hair clips and removable dentures

3If an injection is planned, tell us about any allergy (especially to an iodinated contrast agent), kidney disease, diabetes or myeloma; a recent blood test (creatinine) may be requested

4Tell us if you take metformin (a diabetes treatment): whether to pause it around the injection is decided by the doctor

5No fasting is needed without an injection; with an injection, follow the instructions given when you book

6Bring your referral, previous imaging (CT scan, MRI, X-rays, ultrasound) and any relevant reports

Procedure

You lie on your back, with your head resting in a support and held by small cushions

You lie on a table that slides slowly through a wide, open ring: it is not a closed tunnel

You need to keep your head completely still during the pass, which only lasts a few seconds

If an injection is needed, the iodinated contrast agent is given through a small drip in your arm: a brief feeling of warmth and a metallic taste are normal

The radiographer can see and hear you at all times from the next room

You can then return to your usual activities; after an injection, drink plenty of fluids during the day (unless your doctor advises otherwise) to help clear the contrast agent

Duration

A few seconds of acquisition; about 10 to 15 minutes in total including positioning

Results

The images are analysed by a radiologist, who writes a report. The report is given to you with the images and sent to your doctor, who will explain the results and the next steps. You will be told when to expect it on the day of the examination.

Precautions and contraindications

A CT scan uses X-rays: the dose is set as low as possible while still giving useful images, and the examination is only done when it is justified

Pregnancy: a relative contraindication; a CT scan is only performed if it is essential, after medical advice

Allergic reaction to the iodinated contrast agent (if injected): rare and usually mild (redness, itching); serious reactions are exceptional and the team is trained to manage them

In case of kidney failure, the iodinated injection can strain the kidneys: the doctor avoids or adjusts it

Your doctor and the radiology team will inform you in detail before the examination. Feel free to ask them your questions.

This information is general and does not replace the advice of your doctor, who chooses the examination suited to your situation.