Evaluation of one year brain Computed Tomography scans at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Advancement in technology has contributed immensely to medical practice. Computed tomography (CT), a yield of advanced technology has revolutionized the practice of neuroscience.

Aim: To evaluate the first one year of brain computed tomography scan in the permanent site of  University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, with analysis of the demographic pattern and correlation of the clinical and radiologic CT findings.

Methods:  This was a prospective study that spanned twelve months: April 2007-March  2008. Records of the demographic data, referring department, diagnosis or reason for CT request and CT findings including conclusion were kept on each subject during the study period.

Results: A total of 594 patients had CT scan examination during the study period. Among these, 339  had brain CT scan. There were 190 males and 149 females giving a male: female ratio of 1.3:1. The mean age was 43± 15.2 years. The majority of requests for CT examinations of the brain were made by internal medicine physicians [79(23.3%)], followed by family medicine/general out-patients department doctors [69(20.4%)] and 25(7.4%) were requests from other institutions in and outside Rivers State. The major reasons for brain CT request were seizure disorders [75(22.1%)], head injuries [70(20.7%)] and stroke [69(20.1%)]. The CT findings were normal in 80 (23.6%) patients. Head injury was the commonest lesion [117 (34.5%)], with intracranial haemorrhage being highest in frequency [27(23.1%)]. Stroke patients were 48(14.2%) with 79.2% being ischaemic.

Conclusion: CT remains the most rapid and most convenient imaging tool in assessing neurological lesions. Because of the cost and difficulties in managing CT machines, government and multinational companies in the country should assist in the procurement and management of this facility.

Keywords: Computed tomography, Neuroscience, Brain scan