CT Head (without contrast)

Computed tomography (CT) of the head combines a series of X-ray measurements taken from many angles with computer processing to build detailed cross-sectional images of the skull, brain and surrounding structures. Performed without contrast, it is a quick and commonly used scan that gives clinicians a clear view of the bony skull and brain tissue, which is why it is frequently the first-line imaging choice in a number of situations.

A non-contrast head CT is often requested to assess the head after a fall or injury, to investigate persistent or sudden headaches, dizziness or other neurological symptoms, and to look at the sinuses and bony anatomy; a radiologist interprets the images and reports any findings to the referring doctor. The examination itself is brief — usually only a few minutes on the scanner — and requires lying still on a motorised table that passes through the…