CT Scan of the Head

A computed-tomography scan of the head that uses X-rays to produce fast, detailed cross-sectional images of the skull and brain. It is valued for its speed and is commonly used to assess the bony structures and to investigate a range of symptoms. At OMEGA the scan is performed on a 16-slice CT system and is non-contrast at the standard price, with contrast added when indicated. The examination itself takes only a few minutes, after which a specialist radiologist reviews the images and provides a written report.

A CT scan of the head uses a rotating X-ray system and computer processing to build detailed cross-sectional images of the skull and brain very quickly. Its main strengths are speed and excellent depiction of bone, which is why CT is often the chosen method for assessing the bony skull and the sinuses, and for situations where a fast overview is wanted; MRI, by contrast, gives more soft-tissue detail and uses no radiation, and the radiologist or your doctor can advise which is more suitable for a given question. At OMEGA the scan is performed on a Hitachi Eclos 16-slice CT system. You lie on your back on a table that moves smoothly through the ring-shaped scanner while it acquires images; the actual scanning takes only a few minutes and you simply need to keep your head still. In some cases the radiologist may recommend an intravenous iodinated contrast agent to show blood vessels or characterise a finding, in which case a recent creatinine result may be requested first, which the centre can arrange on site. Because CT uses ionising radiation, it is used when the clinical benefit justifies it. The published 450 zł price is for a self-pay, non-contrast head CT with transparent fixed pricing; contrast is charged separately when needed. Private bookings require no referral and waiting times are short. After the scan a specialist radiologist interprets the images and prepares a written report, normally within a few working days, with images supplied on CD and an optional expedited 24-hour report for an additional fee. This is general information only and does not replace advice from your own physician about whether the examination is appropriate for you.