Neuroradiology CT

This field focuses on imaging of the head, neck and central nervous system, which includes the brain and spine. Washington Radiology’s team of board-certified radiologists have special training and expertise in diagnostic neuroradiology. Our radiologists work with neurologists and primary care physicians throughout the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Northern Virginia area to recommend the most effective imaging and evaluate for the presence of a variety of medical conditions, including back pain, trauma, stroke and vascular issues. 

Training and experience are important in choosing where to go for your imaging study. At Washington Radiology, neuroimaging studies are interpreted and reported by a board-certified neuroradiologist with the background training and certification to support this specialization. We conduct a high number of these exams and bring a collective expertise to every patient we see. This means a more definitive diagnosis to help accelerate follow-up treatments and interventions.

Most insurance plans require prior authorization for CT scans, regardless of history or condition associated with the exam purpose. We have a team of precertification specialists who will work with you and your insurance provider to obtain necessary medical history and notes from your referring physician to complete the precertification process. Precertification services are a courtesy that we offer patients to help with the paperwork needed to obtain your imaging care.

CT generates a series of X-ray images and uses advanced computer technology to construct cross-sectional views of bones, organs and blood vessels in extraordinarily fine detail and from multiple angles. A technologist will conduct the exam and perform the computerized function from a small monitoring room next to the open room where the CT scanner is located. The images help radiologists screen for health conditions or evaluate health concerns at an earlier stage.

No. It is painless and noninvasive. Your exam may require that you receive an IV contrast agent to make your vessels and tissues more visible on the CT images. For the scan, the technologist will position you comfortably on the table. You will need to lie still and hold your breath for a few seconds during the scan because any movement may distort the quality of the images.

It depends on which CT study your physician has ordered. Most scans are quick, lasting a few seconds to several minutes. Depending on the type of exam and preparation required, you may need to arrive 15 to 30 minutes early.

How you prepare for your CT scan depends on which part of the body is being examined. You will receive preparation instructions at the time of scheduling.

Prophylaxis for those with a reaction to allergens other than CT contrast is not recommended. If you have had a reaction to CT IV contrast in the past you will be advised to have your CT scan at a hospital or other high level center.

A contrast agent, sometimes called a dye, is a liquid that makes certain tissues stand out more clearly during the exam. If a contrast agent is used, it will be injected into a vein, usually in the arm. The contrast agent will leave your body naturally within a few hours. If your exam requires a contrast agent, be sure to tell the technologist if you have any allergies to medication or food.

At Washington Radiology, a radiologist certified by the American Board of Radiology oversees the CT scan. The radiologist will be assisted by a technologist and/or a registered nurse who has extensive training in the use of CT. The care team will create a warm and welcoming environment to ensure your comfort and the highest-quality images.

A board-certified radiologist at Washington Radiology will interpret your scan typically within 24 hours. The radiologist will dictate their findings and the report will be sent to your referring physician who ordered the CT scan. Your physician will contact you to share your exam results.

Yes. Before a CT scan, notify your referring physician, the Washington Radiology scheduling staff, the CT nurse, or the CT technologist if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, have allergies or are diabetic. Disclose if you have had any reactions to a previous contrast agent.

Family members are not permitted in the CT scan room during the exam due to unnecessary radiography exposure. There is a comfortable reception area nearby where family members can wait.

MRI does not use X-rays and ionizing radiation like a CT scan. With a CT scan, X-rays and computer software are used to create 2D and 3D reconstructed images of the body. MRI involves sending electromagnetic waves, such as those used in radio transmission, in a safe magnetic environment. The body then sends tiny radio waves back to a computer recorder.

Because MRI and CT use entirely different techniques for mapping the body, the images show different characteristics of anatomy. Your physician, often in consultation with one of our radiologists, will determine which exam is best for you.