Computed tomography of the brain (head CT), without or with iodinated contrast injection
Brain CT Scan (Head CT) in Casablanca
A brain CT scan, or head CT scan, uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of the brain and the skull bones. Because it is fast, it is often requested when an answer is needed without delay, after a fall on the head or for a recent neurological symptom. It is performed without injection, or with an iodinated contrast agent to see the vessels and certain lesions more clearly. It helps the doctor guide the diagnosis.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
The exam itself usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, a little longer with an injection.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
GE Revolution
When is this exam needed?
- Blow to the head, especially with loss of consciousness, vomiting or anticoagulant treatment.
- Unusual headaches, very sudden ones, or headaches that change in character.
- Recent neurological signs (weakness of an arm or a leg, speech problems), most often as an emergency.
- Seizure, confusion or memory problems to be investigated.
- Monitoring of a known lesion or of a shunt valve (a drain for the fluid around the brain).
- Examination of the brain when MRI is not possible, for example with certain pacemakers.
How the exam is done
At reception, the radiographer rereads the prescription and asks you about a possible pregnancy, your allergies and your medications. You remove glasses, earrings, hair clips and removable dental appliances: metal close to the head creates streaks on the images. You lie on your back, with your head resting in a head holder and supported by cushions.
The table slides slowly into the ring, which is wide and open. You hear a light rotating sound, with no pain: simply keep your head still and breathe normally. If an injection is planned, a small tube placed in a vein in your arm allows a second series of images. It is removed at the end, and you resume your activities, unless your doctor gives different instructions.
Preparation
- Remove hairpins, hair clips, head jewelry and removable dentures.
- Keep taking your usual treatment, including antiepileptic medication, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- For a young child or an agitated person, let us know when you book: the head must stay still.
- Come with someone after a fainting spell, a seizure or a recent fall.
Fasting
No fasting is needed, even if an injection is planned. Drink normally.
Contrast injection
The iodine injection is not systematic: it depends on the question asked, for example a mass, an infection or the study of the vessels. The contrast agent goes through a vein in the arm and sometimes causes a brief feeling of warmth.
Contraindications and precautions
- Previous reaction to an iodinated contrast agent: tell us when you book; a preparation or another exam may be offered.
- Diabetes treated with metformin, or kidney disease: please tell us. Depending on your kidney function, the radiologist will tell you whether metformin should be paused after the injection. Bring a recent creatinine test if you are asked to.
- Hyperthyroidism or another thyroid disorder, to be reported before iodine is given.
- Current or possible pregnancy: you must tell us before the exam. A CT scan uses X-rays: it is performed during pregnancy only if it is essential.
- Breastfeeding: please tell us. It is generally not necessary to stop breastfeeding after an iodinated contrast injection.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from your doctor
- Brain CT or MRI scans already performed, with their reports
- List of your medications, especially anticoagulants and antiepileptics
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
- Recent creatinine test (kidney function test) if an injection is planned
Price and insurance coverage
The price of the brain CT scan varies with the extent of the area examined (brain only, or brain and vessels) and with whether it is done with or without an iodine injection, decided according to the question asked.
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Does a brain CT scan replace an MRI?
Not always. A CT scan is fast and very useful in emergencies, to look for bleeding or to study the skull bones. MRI generally gives more detail on brain tissue. Your doctor chooses the appropriate exam, and the radiologist can suggest an additional exam if needed.
I am pregnant, can I have a head CT scan?
Always tell us about a pregnancy, even if you are not sure. A CT scan uses X-rays: during pregnancy, it is performed only if the expected benefit is significant, after discussion between the radiologist and your doctor. Even though the beam is aimed at the head, the decision is made case by case.
Are the X-rays of a brain CT scan dangerous?
The dose is limited and adapted to the exam, to your age and to the question asked, and every CT scan must be justified. Bring your previous brain exams: comparison is very valuable and sometimes avoids having to repeat images.
What should I do in case of sudden symptoms?
Sudden weakness on one side of the body, sudden difficulty speaking, loss of vision or a violent, unusual headache are emergencies. Do not book an appointment: contact emergency services immediately.
Brain CT Scan (Head CT) in Casablanca: how much does it cost?
The price of the brain CT scan varies with the extent of the area examined (brain only, or brain and vessels) and with whether it is done with or without an iodine injection, decided according to the question asked. The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.