Computed Tomography (CT) with Guided Head Imaging (Bone Window)
This test uses X-ray imaging to create detailed pictures of your skull and brain structures, focusing on bone density and potential abnormalities. It helps doctors assess conditions like fractures, infections, or structural changes.
["A CT head scan provides clear images to check for bone-related issues in the skull and brain area."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35892-9
- Short code
- CT Guided Head Bx
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Head Bx
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- CPT
- 82626
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
A CT scan with a bone window captures high-resolution images of your skull’s bony structures, including the cranial bones, sinuses, and surrounding areas. This window setting enhances visibility of bone density and potential abnormalities such as fractures, lesions, or signs of infection.
How the Test Works
During the scan, you’ll lie still on a table while a series of X-ray images are taken from different angles. A contrast dye may be used to improve visibility of blood vessels or specific areas, though this is not always required for bone imaging.
Preparation and Procedure
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, or any metal objects that could interfere with the images. Stay as still as possible during the scan to ensure clear results.
Common Uses and Benefits
CT head bone scans are typically used to diagnose or evaluate conditions like skull fractures, bone infections (osteomyelitis), tumors, or congenital bone abnormalities. They can also help monitor chronic conditions affecting bone density.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CT Head Bone Scan
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the risks or side effects?
How long will the results take to return?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy