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Brain scans and spine scans
A fact sheet on CT scan and MRI scan for patients and carers
Download this booklet in PDF format (934kb)
CT scans
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan is a Computerised Tomography scan. It is a special type of X-ray using a scanner and computer equipment to take pictures of the brain or spine.It differs from a standard X-ray as it produces pictures of cross-sections of the brain or spine.
What happens before a CT scan?
You will need to remove glasses, jewellery, hair slides, dental braces and dentures with metal plates before the scan. It is important to tell the staff if you are pregnant or think you might be.What happens during a CT scan?
You will be asked to lie on a scanner table. You should mention if you are uncomfortable because it is important that you are able to keep still during the scan.When you are comfortable and ready, the staff will leave the room. They will continue to talk with you using an intercom.
The scanner table then moves through the scanner to take the first picture. The scanner rotates in small movements around your head to take further pictures. Up to 30 pictures might be taken during one session.
A CT scan is a painless procedure and usually takes 20 minutes or longer.
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