CT Head
Fast, high-resolution CT of the head for trauma, headache, and suspected acute neurologic events.
Find CT Head near you
What a ct head shows
- Acute intracranial hemorrhage
- Skull fractures and facial trauma
- Mass effect, midline shift, and hydrocephalus
- Large established stroke and chronic infarct
- Sinus disease and bony pathology
- Post-operative changes and shunt position
Why your physician orders it
- Head trauma with concerning symptoms
- Sudden severe (thunderclap) headache
- Suspected acute stroke (often paired with CTA)
- Confusion or altered mental status
- Follow-up of known hemorrhage or post-operative changes
Contrast notes
CT may be acquired with or without iodinated IV contrast depending on the indication. Trauma, vascular, and oncologic work-up typically use contrast; renal function and contrast-allergy history are screened first. The standard sinus or non-contrast head exam is performed without IV contrast.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full CT Scan prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 20–30 minutes door-to-door, with the scan itself usually under 5 minutes. You'll lie on the CT table, which moves slowly through the donut-shaped gantry while the X-ray tube rotates around you.
If IV contrast is used, the technologist places an IV and you'll feel a brief warm flush as the contrast is injected. Holding your breath for 5–10 seconds during scanning sharpens chest and abdominal images.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary CT head when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for CT Head
Low-Dose Protocols
Reduced radiation dose without sacrificing diagnostic image quality.
Same-Day Urgent Slots
Held capacity for urgent referrals across the network.
Sub-Specialty Reads
Board-certified body, chest, and neuro radiologists.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a ct head location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see CT Scan locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Is CT head safe?
Yes. Modern dose-reduction protocols keep radiation exposure low while preserving diagnostic image quality.
How long does it take?
The scan itself is under 1 minute. Plan for 20 minutes door-to-door.
Will I need contrast?
Most non-trauma head CTs are non-contrast. Contrast is added for tumor, infection, vascular, or post-operative evaluations.
Can I get a CT head as a walk-in?
Many California locations accept walk-in CT for urgent indications with a current physician order. Call ahead to confirm availability.
How quickly will I get results?
Preliminary findings are typically available within an hour; the signed final report is delivered the same day.
How much does CT head cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.