Rapid Diagnosis
Critical results in emergency stroke and trauma protocols within minutes.
Sub-mm Precision
Capturing minute lesions and vascular anomalies with 0.5mm slice thickness.
Low Dose Tech
AI-optimized radiation protocols for maximum safety without quality loss.
Introduction to Neuro-Imaging
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the brain is a sophisticated diagnostic imaging procedure that uses rotating X-ray beams and advanced computing to create detailed, cross-sectional images (slices) of the brain and surrounding cranial structures. At Imperial Imaging, our 128-slice CT scanner represents the pinnacle of neuro-imaging technology, offering unprecedented clarity that is essential for diagnosing complex neurological conditions.
The brain is the most complex organ in the human body, encased in the rigid protection of the skull. Traditional diagnostic methods often fall short when trying to visualize internal brain structures. Our high-resolution CT protocols allow for the precise visualization of brain tissue, ventricles, blood vessels, and the skull base, enabling our expert radiologists to detect even the most subtle abnormalities.
Neuroimaging has undergone a paradigm shift with the advent of multidetector CT scanners. Our 128-slice system provides not just structural information but also functional insights through advanced post-processing. This allows for the differentiation between various types of brain pathologies, such as edema, ischemia, and neoplastic infiltration. The speed of our scanner is a critical factor, especially for patients who are agitated or in critical condition, as it reduces the likelihood of motion artifacts that can obscure vital diagnostic information.
Why is a CT Brain Performed?
Physicians recommend a CT Brain for a wide spectrum of clinical indications, ranging from acute trauma to chronic neurological monitoring. Common reasons include:
1 Acute Stroke Assessment
Differentiating between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes is time-critical. Our rapid protocols help clinicians decide on thrombolytic therapy within minutes. We employ CT Perfusion mapping to identify the 'penumbra'—the salvageable brain tissue surrounding an infarct—which is vital for advanced stroke intervention decisions.
2 Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Evaluating skull fractures, intracranial bleeds (subdural, epidural, or subarachnoid hematomas), and brain contusions following accidents. Our technology provides high-contrast bone windows to detect hairline fractures and subtle intracranial air collections (pneumocephalus).
3 Space Occupying Lesions
Detection and characterization of primary brain tumors, metastatic disease, cysts, and abscesses with high anatomical precision. Contrast-enhanced studies are particularly useful here to define tumor margins and the degree of vascularity.
4 Chronic Symptoms
Investigating persistent headaches, seizures, sudden changes in personality, memory loss, or visual disturbances. CT helps rule out structural causes such as hydrocephalus (excessive fluid in the brain) or chronic subdural hematomas in elderly patients.
Detailed Clinical Insights
The versatility of CT brain imaging extends to the assessment of the paranasal sinuses, the temporal bones (ears), and the orbits (eyes). For patients suffering from chronic sinusitis or hearing loss, specialized CT protocols provide high-resolution bone detail that is essential for surgical planning. In cases of orbital trauma or suspected masses, CT provides clear visualization of the optic nerve, extraocular muscles, and the integrity of the orbital walls.
Furthermore, our facility specializes in CT Angiography (CTA) of the Head. This non-invasive procedure involves the injection of a contrast agent to visualize the intracranial blood vessels. It is the gold standard for detecting aneurysms (weak spots in vessel walls), Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs), and atherosclerotic narrowing of the carotid and vertebral arteries. The ability to rotate these vascular images in 3D space allows surgeons to visualize the pathology from any angle before entering the operating room.
Pediatric neuroimaging is also a key focus at Imperial Imaging. We understand the sensitivity of young patients to radiation. Our "Image Gently" protocols are tailored specifically for children, utilizing the lowest possible radiation dose to achieve diagnostic-quality images. The speed of our 128-slice scanner is particularly advantageous for children, as it often eliminates the need for sedation by completing the scan in the blink of an eye.
Procedure & Preparation
Before the Scan
If your scan is "Non-Contrast," no special preparation is required. For "Contrast-Enhanced" scans, we require fasting for 4 hours. You must inform our team if you have a history of kidney disease, diabetes, or allergies to iodine-based contrast media. We will also check your Creatinine levels to ensure your kidneys can safely process the contrast dye.
During the Scan
You will lie on a motorized table that glides into the doughnut-shaped CT scanner. It is crucial to remain perfectly still. You may hear humming or whirring sounds; this is normal. Our technicians will communicate with you throughout via an intercom system. If contrast is injected, you may feel a sudden warm flush or a metallic taste in your mouth—this is temporary and completely normal.
After the Scan
You can resume normal activities immediately. If contrast was used, we recommend drinking plenty of water to help flush the dye from your system. Reports are usually ready within 24 hours, meticulously analyzed by Dr. Tejeshwar Singh and his team. Dr. Singh’s expertise in interventional radiology ensures that the findings are interpreted with a clinical perspective that is highly valuable for your treating physician.
Expert Interpretation Matters
The quality of a CT scan depends not only on the machine but also on the expertise of the radiologist reading it. At Imperial Imaging, every CT Brain scan is reviewed by specialized radiologists who have extensive experience in neuro-diagnostics. We look for subtle signs of early disease that might be missed in a routine screening. Our detailed reports provide clear, actionable insights for your doctor, ensuring you receive the best possible follow-up care.
We also maintain a digital archive of all scans. This allows for easy comparison with previous or future imaging studies, which is essential for monitoring the progression of chronic conditions or the response to treatment for tumors and infections. Your health data is stored securely and can be shared with your healthcare team at your request.
Ready to Book Your Scan?
Trust the experts in neuro-imaging. We provide fast, accurate, and professional reports for all head and brain scans.