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CT Head Without Contrast — 3D Reconstruction (Deprecated)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A CT scan of the head performed without injected contrast, with images reconstructed into a 3D view for evaluation of the skull, brain, and nearby structures.

Quick summary

["This imaging test creates detailed cross-sectional and 3D images of the head to help evaluate injuries, bleeding, and structural abnormalities."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
69082-6
Short code
Deprecated Head CT +3DR WO contr
Synonyms
Deprecated Head CT +3DR WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
80
Ref high
200
Critical range
20 N/A – 400 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ct
CPT
84436
SNOMED
302346007
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 computed tomography scan of the head performed without injected contrast. A 3D reconstruction uses the scan data to create a three-dimensional image that may help show the skull, brain surface, and other structures.

Why might I need this test?

A head CT may be ordered after a head injury or to investigate symptoms such as severe headache, confusion, weakness, seizures, vision changes, or repeated vomiting. The 3D reconstruction may assist with evaluating skull shape, fractures, and complex anatomy.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table while an X-ray machine takes many images around your head. The images are combined and processed to create cross-sectional views and a 3D reconstruction. The scan is painless, but you must remain still.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for a CT scan without contrast. Remove metal objects, jewelry, hairpins, and removable hearing aids if instructed. Tell the imaging staff if you are pregnant, may be pregnant, or have concerns about radiation exposure.

Reference range

Adult: 80-200 ng/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Head CT without contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this test use injected contrast?
No. This test is identified as a head CT without contrast, so no contrast dye is injected. Some CT examinations use contrast for different diagnostic purposes.
Is a head CT safe?
Head CT uses ionizing radiation, but the examination is generally safe when appropriately ordered and performed. The radiologist or ordering clinician will consider the reason for the scan and your individual risk factors.
Why is this test marked as deprecated?
The deprecated label indicates that this specific test entry or naming format is no longer current in the laboratory catalog. A 3D reconstruction may still be included as part of a radiology study, so check with the ordering clinician or imaging facility about how the result is reported.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy