CT Scan of the Head/Brain

Before Arriving for Your Procedure

Your doctor has requested a computed tomography scan (CT) of your brain. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed pictures of the body. This technology, called cross-sectional imaging, allows the imaging physician to take highly detailed images and to assess your brain for injury or abnormality, including bleeding, tumors, blood clots or signs of stroke. Cedars-Sinai's S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of brain imaging specialists, led by Barry D. Pressman, MD., Chief, Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Radiology.Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their ordering physician prior to starting the exam.

If your exam includes an intravenous injection (injection in a vein in your arm), you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything four hours prior to your exam.

Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.

Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.

After Arriving

This exam may include an injection of a contrast material that contains iodine. You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.

The radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history and start your IV for the exam.

During Your Procedure

While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.

You will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides.

Your head will be placed in a holder and you will be asked to hold very still. Only your head will be covered by the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.

People who fear small, close places (claustrophobic) usually do not have problems with this procedure.

The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.

If contrast (dye) is required, it will be injected through the IV that was placed by the radiology nurse or technologist prior to your exam.

During the injection you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.

If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face you should notify the technologist immediately.

This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

After Your Procedure

There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.

Your study will be read by a neuro-radiologist (imaging physician) and the results sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.

Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.

To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.

Parking and Valet Information at the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center

We are pleased to announce that we now offer valet parking for imaging patients only. Valet service is available directly in front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center. The price is $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

If you wish to self-park, you may park in lot P4. The imaging center has a FREE dedicated shuttle service which runs every few minutes and will bring patients directly to the front of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, and return them to Lot4. Parking in lot P4 or any other Cedars-Sinai lot costs $4.00 with validation. Validation is available at the Imaging Registration desk inside the center.

Please Note: We do not validate for parking lots in the Medical Office Towers located at 8631 and 8635 W. 3rd Street.