Head Injury After Accident: When is CT or MRI Required?

By Dr. Atul Sharma — Neuro, Brain & Spine Specialist, Jalandhar

🌟 Introduction

Head injuries, whether from a road accident, a fall, or a sports collision, are terrifying. The immediate question every family asks is: "Do we need a scan?"

While modern imaging is a lifesaver, not every bump on the head requires a scan. Conversely, missing a scan in a critical situation can be fatal. Dr. Atul Sharma explains the medical protocols for when to choose a CT scan versus an MRI, and when simple observation is enough.

⚡ CT Scan: The Emergency Hero

When is it used?

A **CT (Computed Tomography) Scan** is the "Gold Standard" for acute head trauma in the emergency room. It is fast (takes less than 5 minutes) and excellent at detecting life-threatening issues immediately.

Doctors order a CT Scan immediately if:

  • There is a skull fracture (bone damage).
  • There is fresh bleeding in the brain (hematoma).
  • The patient is unconscious or confused.
  • The injury happened within the last 24 hours.

🔍 MRI: The Problem Solver

When is it used?

An **MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)** is much slower (30–45 minutes) and cannot be used if the patient is unstable or has metal implants. However, it provides far greater detail of the soft brain tissue than a CT scan.

Doctors order an MRI if:

  • Symptoms persist >48 hours after the accident but the CT scan was normal.
  • We suspect **Diffuse Axonal Injury** (microscopic tearing of nerve fibers).
  • There are subtle changes in behavior, memory, or vision weeks after the injury.
  • To evaluate damage to the brain stem or ligaments.

🚩 Red Flags: When to Rush to the Hospital

If a person has suffered a head injury, observe them closely. Rush to a Neuro specialist immediately if you notice:

  • Loss of consciousness: Even for a few seconds.
  • Vomiting: More than once (repeated projectile vomiting).
  • Seizures: Convulsions or shaking of the body.
  • Disorientation: Not knowing where they are, asking the same questions repeatedly.
  • Bleeding: Clear fluid or blood coming from the nose or ears.

🤕 What About Minor Bumps?

Observation vs. Radiation:

For minor bumps where the patient is fully awake, alert, and has no vomiting, doctors may choose **Observation** instead of a scan. CT scans involve radiation, so we avoid them in children and young adults unless necessary. In these cases, the doctor will ask you to keep the patient awake and monitor them for 6–12 hours.

📞 Trauma & Head Injury Care in Jalandhar

Head injuries can be deceptive. A patient may look fine initially but deteriorate quickly ("Talk and Die" syndrome). Don't take risks with the brain. Get a professional neurological assessment immediately.

Dr. Atul Sharma is an expert in managing Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), skull fractures, and post-concussion syndrome.