“My son has been having bad headaches. His neurologist is sending him to a radiologist. What can we expect next?”

Probably an MRI where he lays in a tube

MRI the brain. Seek out a 1.2T open magnet.

If he's having contract enhanced CT, then the exam will be quick including the injection of an Iodine based compound. If he is having an MRI, then it will take much longer with body and head in tunnel if a closed bore magnet. There will be fairly constant knocking noise but headphones will be provided. There may be Gadolinium based contrast, which will extend the exam. Usually 30-45 min. Hopefully, there will be nothing found other than normal brain matter.

Most likely the neurologist requested an MRI. Your son will be given a set of headphones to cover his ears and placed in a fairly tight tube. If he is claustrophobic he will not like the procedure, as his head will have to be in the tube. The scan actually takes around a half hour, and the test results will depend on his ability to hold still. Too much motion will cause blurring on the images, which will make interpretation difficult. That being said, the test will be over shortly and you will receive the results most likely within a day. good luck!

Hi,

It depends on the tests he is ordering. Could be an MRI or the brain or a CT of the brain, which are very easy and comfortable tests. Your son just lays on a table and the images are acquired.

Thanks,

Dr. Cox