CT of the brain: indications and contraindications

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 to the skull.

Indications for conduction

What is CT of the brain? Using this method of examination, you can visualize the skull, additional sinuses of the nose, brain vessels, so it is used in the following cases:

• Suspicion of a bruised head tissue;
• Fractures of the skull ;
• Acute epidural hematomas;
• Brushes and hygromas of the brain;
• Posttraumatic hydrocephalus or encephalitis.

In addition, CT of the brain is performed in order to confirm acute circulatory disturbances of the head, which happens with ischemia or stroke, for the detection of thrombi and hemorrhages. This examination is also used to diagnose focal neoplasms and developmental defects of the skull, to detect inflammation in the paranasal sinuses, as well as to assess aneurysms and to perform a targeted biopsy.

Contraindications

CT of the brain can be performed with the use of special contrast agents, so it is not recommended to use it with a tendency to allergic reactions, especially with increased sensitivity to iodine-containing drugs. Also, computed tomography is not performed with elevated serum creatinine levels, severe bronchial asthma, or with hypothyroidism.

Pregnant women are recommended alternative methods of examination, since there is a risk of exposure to the fetus. Small children also have a higher sensitivity to radiation, so they spend CT of the brain only on strict indications. It is worth noting that x-ray irradiation increases the risk of cancer, so unjustified computer tomography is unacceptable.

In addition, very obese patients may not fit into the tomograph opening or their weight may become an obstacle to the movement of a special table on which the patient should be placed during the examination.

An important drawback of CT of the brain is that it is impossible to detect the inflammatory process in the meninges with the help of it.

Advantages of CT

Computer tomography is absolutely painless. It is a non-invasive and highly accurate method of examination, allows simultaneous reception of images of bones, tissues and blood vessels. Unlike X-ray studies, CT provides 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 "Stolitsa", and "Medicine", and the Center for Computer and Magnetic Resonance Tomography   and etc.   With the help of it, you can be examined not only qualitatively, but also quickly, which in certain clinical cases allows saving the patient's life, especially with regard to head injuries, which are accompanied by internal hemorrhages.

In addition , computed tomography allows physicians to take pictures of internal structures in real time, to conduct a targeted biopsy, and, if necessary, to individual, minimally invasive procedures. The advantage is that this examination in most cases does not require special training. It is also less sensitive to patient movements (unlike MRI) and does not require delay in breathing.