NCCT Brain (CT Head) Scan in Patna
A fast, plain CT scan of the head at JP Diagnostic. NCCT Brain is the first test doctors use for head injury, suspected stroke and sudden severe headache because it shows bleeding and fractures within minutes.
When Is an NCCT Brain Advised?
Your doctor may advise a plain CT of the brain in these situations.
Head Injury
After a fall, road accident or blow to the head, to look for bleeding, swelling or skull fracture.
Suspected Stroke
Sudden weakness, facial droop or slurred speech. CT quickly shows whether there is bleeding in the brain, which guides emergency treatment.
Sudden Severe Headache
A “worst ever” headache that comes on suddenly can be a sign of bleeding and needs urgent imaging.
Fits or Unconsciousness
A first seizure, fainting with confusion, or a drop in consciousness.
Hydrocephalus & Shunt Check
To check the fluid spaces of the brain and the position of a shunt.
Follow-up
To monitor a known bleed, swelling or post-surgery changes.
NCCT Brain vs CECT Brain vs MRI Brain
Each test answers a different question. Your doctor chooses the right one.
| Feature | NCCT Brain | CECT Brain | MRI Brain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contrast injection | ✓ Not needed | Iodine contrast | Optional (gadolinium) |
| Scan time | ✓ About 5 minutes | 10 – 15 minutes | 20 – 45 minutes |
| Best for | Bleeding, fractures, emergencies | Tumours, infection, abscess | Detailed brain tissue, early stroke, epilepsy |
| Radiation | Low X-ray dose | Low X-ray dose | ✓ None |
| Fasting | ✓ Not needed | Usually 4 hours | Only if sedation needed |
Need MRI instead? See our MRI Brain page.
The Procedure
The scan itself takes only a few minutes. Most patients are in and out in about 15 – 20 minutes.
Registration
Show your doctor’s prescription and any previous CT or MRI reports.
Preparation
Remove hairpins, earrings, spectacles and dentures with metal parts, as they cause streaks on the images.
Scanning
You lie on your back with your head resting in a cradle. The table moves through the open, ring-shaped scanner. Keep your head still. It is painless and quiet.
Report
Our radiologist reviews the images and prepares the report. You can go home or back to your doctor straight away.
How to Prepare
NCCT Brain needs almost no preparation.
✅ Do
- Bring the doctor’s prescription
- Bring previous CT / MRI reports and films
- Eat and take your medicines as usual
- Tell us if you are or may be pregnant
- Bring an attendant for children, elderly or injured patients
❌ Avoid
- Hairpins, clips and earrings
- Moving your head during the scan
- Delaying the scan after a serious head injury or stroke symptoms
Safety
NCCT Brain is a safe, routine test. The benefit of a quick diagnosis is usually far greater than the small radiation dose.
- No injection, no needles
- Painless and quick
- Safe for children when advised by a doctor
- Uses a low dose of X-rays
- Avoid repeat scans that are not needed
- Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
- If the patient cannot stay still
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NCCT Brain the same as CT Head?
Yes. NCCT means non-contrast CT. NCCT Brain, plain CT Brain and CT Head all refer to the same test without any injection.
Do I need to fast?
No. You can eat, drink and take your usual medicines.
How long does it take?
The scan takes about 5 minutes. Including registration, most patients finish in 15 – 20 minutes.
Should I get a CT or an MRI of the brain?
CT is preferred in emergencies such as head injury or suspected bleeding because it is fast. MRI shows brain tissue in much more detail and is preferred for epilepsy, early stroke, tumours and multiple sclerosis. Your doctor will decide.
Can it be done in pregnancy?
CT is avoided in pregnancy unless it is medically necessary. Always tell our staff if you are or may be pregnant.
Price
No hidden charges. Call us for today’s price.
Book Your NCCT Brain Scan
📞 Phone: +91 72502 32233, +91 90066 77776
✉️ Email: jpdiagnosticandimaging@gmail.com