CECT Head - Test, Cost & Procedure

A brain CT is performed to assess any brain lesion, injury, infection or tumors including hydrocephalus or other conditions.

The CT scan of the brain can be done with or without the contrast medium. A contrast is a substance that helps enhance the quality of the images produced. Contrast can be given by intravenous route or orally. The contrast enhanced computed tomography is known as CECT.

The CT head scan usually takes about 5-10 minutes, although with contrast based study, it might take additional 15-20 minutes.

If you are undergoing a contrast based study i.e.CECT, you are suggested not to eat anything at least 4-6 hours before the scan, although you can drink anything as usual. If you are undergoing a CT scan without contrast, you can eat or drink anything normally.

A CECT scan can pose certain side effects:

• Due to radiation - There is a slight possibility of developing radiation-related side effects that include change in the DNA structures configuration. These changes in DNA can cause cancer. Although the chances of developing cancer due to a single CT scan are very low.
• Due to contrast medium- contrast can cause certain allergic reactions such as 
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Rashes
  • Hives
  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Sneezing
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • lightheadedness

Doctors might use CECT head for:

• Seizures
• Hemorrhages
• Bone abnormalities
• Tumours or cancer of brain
• Cysts of brain
• Abscess (fluid collections)
• Venous thrombosis- when blood clot blocks a vein

CECT stands for contrast enhanced computed tomography while the CT scan stands for computed tomography. A CECT is a CT scan with contrast, it has higher sensitivity for detecting any residual diseases, or other disorders and diseases of the brain. Although the cost of an MRI is more than the price of a CECT scan.

We cannot measure a fixed amount of a CECT head as it varies from one diagnostic centre to another depending on various factors. It can generally cost between 2000-6000 INR.

A contrast enhanced computed tomography or CT scan uses x-rays in series that helps to view the brain in detail. A CT scan can efficiently detect fractures, haemorrhages, hematoma, contusions and brain swellings.

The difference between CECT and MRI is that the CECT uses radiation and MRI scan uses magnetism to produce scan images of the internal organs. The MRI scan stands safe in terms of radiation hazards also it is capable of producing more detailed images than a CT scan.

CECT head is a painless procedure, but some patients may feel uncomfortable in closed spaces.

Yes, You can get a free consultation after or before the CECT head with Dr. Ravin Sharma (MBBS, MD in Radiology) who is available at our centre with Mob. no- +919212125996 and availability 24*7*365 days.

You can type CECT head scan near me in Google search for the nearest centres available for CECT head scan.