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CT Head, Right, Without Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A CT scan of the head that focuses on the right side and does not use injected iodinated contrast.

Quick summary

["This scan uses X-rays to create detailed images of the brain and skull without injecting contrast dye."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99612-4
Short code
CT Hrt WO contr
Synonyms
CT Hrt WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
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 is this test?

This is a CT, or computed tomography, scan of the head. It creates detailed X-ray images of the brain, skull, sinuses, and nearby structures, with the right side identified as the area of interest.

Why might I need this test?

A head CT may be ordered to evaluate head injury, sudden weakness, severe headache, confusion, seizures, vision changes, or signs of infection. It can also help identify bleeding, stroke, swelling, tumors, skull fractures, and fluid buildup.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table while a CT scanner takes X-ray images from different angles. The scan is quick and does not hurt, although you may be asked to remain very still; a technologist will guide you through the procedure.

How do I prepare for the test?

Because no iodinated contrast is used, special contrast-related preparation is usually unnecessary. Remove metal objects such as glasses, jewelry, hairpins, and hearing aids if instructed, and tell the imaging staff about any mobility limits, recent surgery, or possibility of pregnancy.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal findings may indicate bleeding within the skull, signs of stroke, brain swelling, infection, a tumor, a skull or facial fracture, sinus disease, or fluid buildup. The radiologist interprets the images along with your symptoms, examination, and other tests. A normal CT does not exclude every condition, particularly some early ischemic strokes or other problems that are not visible on CT.

Short name

Head CT without contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this scan use contrast dye?
No iodinated contrast dye is typically injected for a CT head without contrast. The word “without” refers to the type of CT protocol, and you may still receive an IV line if the facility routinely places one for CT scans.
Why is the right side listed?
The right side is the designated area of clinical interest, such as when evaluating right-sided weakness, head trauma, or a known right-sided problem. The technologist may still scan both sides of the head to provide complete images.
Is a head CT safe?
Head CT uses ionizing radiation, but the examination is generally quick and the radiation dose is limited. Tell the staff if you are pregnant or may be pregnant before the scan begins.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy