A Computed Tomography (CT) scan of the head uses specialized X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain, skull, and surrounding structures. Proper preparation for this procedure is necessary to ensure the images produced are clear and diagnostically useful. Attention to what you wear and bring into the scanning room is important to avoid image artifacts, which are distortions that can obscure important findings. Taking a few simple steps beforehand helps the technologist complete the scan efficiently.
Recommended Clothing Choices
The most suitable attire for a CT scan is loose-fitting and comfortable clothing. Simple garments like sweatpants, soft knitwear, or a plain cotton t-shirt are ideal choices for the examination, as they are generally free of metallic components. These materials allow the patient to lie still easily during the imaging process.
It is best to select clothing guaranteed to be completely metal-free, especially around the upper body. Even small metallic elements can cause streaks or shadowing on the final images because metal densely absorbs the X-ray beams used by the CT scanner.
Avoid shirts, sweaters, or jackets that have metal zippers, snaps, or decorative studs near the neck or shoulder region. Underwire bras also contain metal and should be avoided or removed before the scan. Clothing with metallic threads or large belt buckles can also interfere with the scan quality.
Essential Metal and Accessory Removal
Metallic objects are the primary cause of streaking artifacts in CT scans, which severely compromise the diagnostic quality of head images. The high density of metal causes beam hardening, where the X-ray beam is absorbed unevenly, leading to dark streaks radiating from the object. Therefore, all accessories containing metal must be left outside the scanning room.
This includes all forms of jewelry, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and facial piercings. Hair accessories, like bobby pins, metal clips, and barrettes, must also be removed completely, as they sit directly on the skull.
Eyeglasses and hearing aids must be taken off prior to the scan because their frames contain metallic components that distort the images. If the scan involves the lower facial area, the technologist may also request the removal of removable dental work, such as dentures or retainers, due to their metallic framework.
Preparation for the Head and Face Area
Beyond metallic objects, certain non-structural items applied to the face or hair can also potentially impact image quality or patient comfort. Patients should avoid wearing heavy makeup, particularly around the eyes and cheeks, before the appointment. Some cosmetic products contain minute amounts of metallic minerals, such as iron oxides or zinc, which can generate minor but noticeable artifacts on the scan.
Similarly, excessive use of sticky or stiff hair products, like strong gels or hairsprays, should be minimized. While these products do not typically cause image artifacts, they can make it difficult to lie completely flat and still in the head cradle, which is required for the duration of the scan. Patient movement, even slight, is a major source of image blurring.
If you have long hair, it should be secured away from the face and neck using a simple, non-metallic elastic band. This ensures the hair does not obstruct the field of view or shift during the imaging sequence. Focusing on a clean, simple presentation maximizes both your comfort and the technical quality of the resulting images.