MRI vs. CT Scan; Diagnosing Spinal and Neck Injuries in the spine, MRI is typically better than CT (computerized tomography), especially for soft tissues, spinal cord injuries, and ligamentous injuries. CT scans are superior for evaluating bony structures and for evaluating some specific cases like blunt trauma or when short on time and need something quick and less expensive.
What Is MRI Scanning for the Spine?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is tested using a magnetic field and pulsing radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body.MRI provides alternative information about bodily structures that a computed tomography (CT) scan can see
Patients who feel they are going to surprise their doctor with a panic during the scanning process should let the doctor know beforehand and the doctor will give them something to relax or may refer them for a panic solution.
CT Scanning of the Spine
CT scanning, otherwise known as computed tomography or CAT scanning, is a diagnostic medical examination that produces multiple images and views of the inside of the body just like conventional x-rays.
With CT, the spinal vertebrae cortical bone architecture is imaged very clearly and accurately; the intervertebral disks are easily imaged and, to a lesser degree, the soft tissue that surrounds the spinal cord.
How does an MRI differ from a CT SCAN?
An MRI is different from a CAT scan in that it doesn’t use any radiation.
MRI’s are better at evaluating water-containing tissue. If someone is looking for signs of disease along the spinal cord, bulging discs, small disc herniation, pinched nerves, or other soft tissue problems.
What is an MRI?
Breast cancer: MRI’s help doctors to find breast tumors.
Joint abnormalities: MRI’s often show clear views of ligament, joint and tendon problems.
Blood vessels: MRI’s often show problems with blood vessels and can show: aneurysms, damage from previous heart attacks, artery blockages and other problems involving the heart or blood vessels.
Inflammatory bowel: MRI’s can also examine bowel conditions involving inflammation such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Liver disease: injury to the liver due to disease or lifestyle, such as cirrhosis can often cameo satisfactory resolution MRI.
What’s a CT Scan?
Circulation issues- Heart disease, blood vessel occlusions, kidney conditions, pulmonary edemas, and aortic aneurysms can be evaluated and diagnosed using CT scans.
Abdominal anomalies- Masses found in the liver, pancreas or kidneys can be an unidentified tumor or something else completely.
Urinary bleeding sources– CT scans can look into what may be causing blood to be present in your urine.
Lung problems– Breathing issues can usually be diagnosed by a CT scan. Signs of fibrosis, emphysema, tumors, pleural effusion, collapsed lungs and more can be identified.
Skeletal system complaints– When typical x-rays do not give the doctor enough detail of the bones, CT scans may be more appropriate for fully visualizing complex fractures, spinal cord injuries, osteoporosis damage and bone tumors.
Bone issues: MRIs will show bones and soft tissues around bones. Seeing both lets your doctor see all aspects of your bone health, and if there are any infections or tumors on or near your bones.
CT vs MRI for back pain
If you have trauma to your spine, like in a car crash, or you suspect you may have a fracture, a CT is a quick way to scan the bones of the spine, and will take just a few minutes,CT typically provides better bony detail than MRI. Another consideration of having an MRI for back pain is if you have metal hardware in your spine.
Conclusion
CT scans are accepted with acute trauma, bony injury, or the presence of metal implants. The examination should be based on a clinical question, patient history, and physician preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is a CT scan or MRI better for the spine?
In terms of spinal imaging, MRI is typically better for viewing soft tissues, while CT scans are typically better for viewing bone and are more commonly used in emergencies.
Q. What is the best scan for the spine?
An MRI is the best scan for most spinal problems because it is more suited to assessment of soft tissues and provides a wealth of information as to possible problems.
Q. Which is more accurate, CT or MRI?
Typically, MRI offers superior imaging of soft tissues, and so it’s more useful for imaging problems such as torn ligaments, herniated discs, and specific types of cancers. CT scans are faster and are better for imaging bones, lungs, and during emergencies when something must be done quickly.
Q. Which scan is better for back pain?
MRI scans are widely accepted as the best imaging tool for back pain diagnosis because they show soft tissue better than any other imaging tool, including the spinal cord, nerves, and discs.
Q. Why is Carebox your best choice?
When choosing the imaging centres at carebox, please take note of all the reasons that carebox is your best choice for imaging tests:
● Affordable: Find all MRI scans compared with pricing so you can find the best deals.
● Trust & Quality: All our partners are reputable diagnostic centres across Delhi.
● Expert Support: We provide assistance throughout the Booking and scanning process.
