Skull x-ray
What is Skull X-Ray?
Skull x-ray is an imaging test that uses a low-dose of radiation to take pictures of the bones in the head and skull. It’s used to diagnose diseases and conditions that affect the skull bones, including tumors, cysts, fractures, and other conditions.
Purpose of Skull X-Ray
Skull x-ray can help diagnosis a range of conditions affecting the bones of the head and skull, such as:
- Fractures caused by an external force, such as from a fall or trauma.
- Brain tumors, cysts or other abnormal growths.
- Infections.
- Haemorrhage or blood clots.
- Holes in the skull.
- Cleft lip and palate.
- Arthritis.
Preparation for Skull X-Ray
No special preparation is generally required for a skull x-ray. Although, it is recommended to remove all metal objects in the area, as they can distort the images.
Procedure of Skull X-Ray
Skull x-ray is a safe and painless procedure. The patient will be required to lie down on an x-ray table. Between two plates a small plate will be placed on the patient’s head and will take several pictures in different angles.
Types of Skull X-Ray
The two types of skull x-rays are:
- Caldwell view – takes a picture of the facial bones.
- Towne view – takes an oblique view of the skull.
Risks of Skull X-Ray
Skull x-ray is considered safe for adults and children, as the amount of radiation is very small and exposure is short. As with all imaging examinations, there is a very small risk of an allergic reaction to the dye used to make the radiation visible.
Why and When to Get a Skull X-Ray?
Skull x-ray is usually recommended for people who have suffered head trauma or who have neurological symptoms, in order to diagnose a wide range of conditions that affect the bones in the head, such as skull fractures, blood clots, brain tumors, and more. It is also recommended to monitor the healing progress of fractures.