Head MRI scans are commonly safe, although there are risks. There can be issues with some implanted medical devices, allergic reactions to contrast dye (if you are given this), and fear of loud noises or confined places. Complications related to contrast dye are rare, particularly if you have pre-existing kidney problems.  

Risk Factors of Head MRI Scan 

Magnetism and Metal Implants 

The primary danger from head MRI is not the scanner itself  it is the strong magnetic field generated by MRI which may interact with any metal in or on the body: 

Implanted devices: Patients may be at risk if they have certain metal implants, like pacemakers, cochlear implant processors, some aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, intrathecal drug infusion pumps, and some older prostheses, since the magnet may affect their function, position or can heat them up and cause injury or device failure. 

Metallic Foreign Bodies: Internal metallic foreign bodies (for example – surgical clips, pins, bullets, shrapnel, etc.) can heat and/or move, causing tissue damage or burns. 

Heating and Burns  

Radiofrequency energy is delivered to the body in an MRI. It can cause heating of body tissues as well as metallic items. It could be a potential risk for patients who have metallic implants or devices, as localized heating can cause burns. Most reported adverse events that were associated with heating and burns, particularly second-degree burns. 

Noise and Hearing Risks  

MRI scanners will make loud knocking sounds of various intensities when altering the magnetic fields. If the patient did not use appropriate ear protection, the noise loudness may contribute to the risk of hearing loss or ringing in the ears. 

Contrast Agents 

Allergic Reactions: Serious allergic reactions are rare, and if they occur are almost always mild in nature and easy to treat.  

Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF): NSF is a rare but serious condition related to severe underlying renal disease after exposure to a gadolinium based contrast agent. 

Other Effects: Patients with prior history of allergies, asthma, anemia, or blood disorders should inform their doctor, so that they can consider risk for adverse reactions to gadolinium. 

Special Populations 

Pregnant patients: There is generally no evidence of direct risk, although MRI is often considered contraindicated in pregnant patients due to potential heating risks and theoretical effects on fetal development. 

Children and infants: Sedation required to keep a motionless bundle of joy with the possibility of the risks associated with anesthesia. 

Other Effects Reported  

Peripheral nerve stimulation: Some patients report muscle twitching as a result of changing magnetic fields. 

Vestibular effects: An investigational study at very high magnetic field strength (much higher than those associated with clinical MRI) has reported transient, slight vestibular effects (increased eye movement or metallic taste), but did not compromise safety. 

Risks of head MRI 

The strong magnetostatic field will pull on ferromagnetic objects (from small objects such as keys and cell phones to large, heavy items such as oxygen tanks and floor buffers) which can result in damage to the scanner or the patient or medical care personnel getting injured if those objects become projectiles. Screening people and objects entering the MR environment is critical to decreasing the risk that anything enters the magnet area that could become a projectile. 

Conclusion  

On the whole, an MRI of the head is empirically safe, assuming the patient screening and safety procedures are completed correctly. The risk of an MRI pertains to patients who have implants, metal somewhere in their body, have obvious severe renal problems, or are very claustrophobic. Patients should always state to the scanning facility the necessary implants, metal, allergic, and or medical history prior to head MRI to limit the risk, and contemplate the appropriate procedure to follow. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. Are there any side effects from a head MRI? 

Although having an MRI of your head is generally considered safe, there is a risk of experiencing side effects while having an MRI of your head, and after the MRI of your head. These side effects may range from mild, mild, or mildly or maybe minor, such as nausea,  

Q. Is an MRI of the brain risky? 

A brain MRI is usually very safe and has very little risk. There are no harmful effects of the very powerful magnetic field used in MRI, but it can affect medical devices implanted in your body or any metallic objects in your body.  

Q. Are there any harmful effects of MRI? 

MRI scans are generally safe, but there are still risks and side effects to be aware of, including discomfort from the strong magnetic field, the potential for heating up your body, and allergic or other adverse reactions to contrast agents. 

Q. Does MRI have negative effects? 

MRI scans are usually safe but can possibly have side effects. Most side effects associated with an MRI scan seem to be mild and will usually resolve on their own patients could experience a tingling sensation. 

Q. Are imaging centers cheaper than hospitals?  

Yes, imaging centres may not have space and all the other fees to pay and can actually be cheaper than private hospitals. To find the cheapest imaging centres near you call carebox. 

Overview 

PET or positron emission tomography scan is a diagnostic imaging mode that is done with a special dye, or contrast media. The dye, which contains radioactive tracers, facilitates the easy study of blood movement with the assistance of certain imaging. 

The PET cardiac scan also assists the physician in determining whether a patient can undergo angioplasty or could do better with some other form of surgical intervention for the clogged or blocked arteries. 

What is a cardiac PET scan? 

A cardiac PET scan is a stress test that analyzes the flow of blood to a patient’s heart. The test only requires a small quantity of radioactive material, which is referred to as a radioactive tracer. The radioactive tracer is injected into the patient’s vein. The most widely used radioactive tracer is Rubidium-82. It differs from a contrast or a dye in that it will also decay in a matter of minutes and also does not put the kidneys at risk.  

The tracer will come to rest within the heart muscle in a corresponding proportion to the blood flow. Then it emphasizes various segments of the heart with a strong color. In the instance of completely patent coronary arteries, the color shall be highly intense and it will wean off gradually and turn into less intense cooler color once the patient has blockages. It is due to the fact that the blockages will hinder the flow of blood properly in the coronary arteries. 

The procedure is done under the assistance of a cardiac PET scanner that picks up the radiation emitted by the tracer and forms precise and flawless images of the heart muscle. 

The whole imaging diagnosis is performed at rest and during stress. It is performed with the combination of a drug that facilitates the opening of the blood vessel’s flow (vasodilator). The medication is used to initiate the action of exercise. 

The medication also allows the physician to determine whether the patient’s heart is receiving a sufficient amount of blood when it is active to the limit with respect to when it is resting. The primary application of the PET cardiac scan is to determine the level of damage to the heart following a heart attack and also assess how effective the cardiac treatment is.  

Cardiac PET Scan VS Traditional imaging tests 

The cardiac PET scan is useful and superior in numerous aspects to other imaging tests. 

One advantage is precision. The conventional SPECT nuclear stress test is not effective at all and produces images that are indistinct and hard to read. A PET scan, however, is the equivalent of high spatial, contrast, or temporal resolution of the images.  

PET images are simple to interpret and do not involve the hardship of falsely positive or falsely negative results. It is characterized by providing better quality images and diagnostic performance. It does not involve any unjustified invasive angiography procedures in patients. Safety is the second benefit of a cardiac PET scan. There is some degree of exposure in other tests such as X-rays, nuclear, CT, or invasive heart angiograms. 

Radiation exposure to patients during PET scans is much less, including technologists’ radiation exposure, and physicians compared to CT angiograms or SPECT radiotracers. PET is a first preference as a preferred stress imaging modality based on current recommendations to evaluate coronary artery disease in the young. The plus point is PET scan is patient-centered, offering timely and effective treatment.  

The patient can receive the findings of a cardiac PET scan within less than 45 minutes while it will take three to four hours for other methods such as a SPECT stress test. It is a big relief for patients who are going through this PET stress test. Cardiac PET is also beneficial in the sense that it can be used by men, women, and individuals of all sizes with the same degree of accuracy as compared to the SPECT test. 

Another advantage and better quality of cardiac PET scan is that it has the ability to quantify the absolute blood flow to heart muscle (coronary flow reserve). It provides a picture and idea of the test being normal or abnormal. 

Who Benefits Most From A Cardiac PET Scan? 

Cardiac PET scan is useful for patients who experienced indeterminate results from other imaging modalities, since unlike them, PET gives good-quality images, and excellent accuracy, with an ability to measure coronary blood flow within the various coronary arteries areas. PET scan is also useful for those patients who are obese, patients with complicated coronary artery diseases, possess large breasts, and those for whom an inaccurate diagnosis can have the most adverse clinical effects. 

It is also useful in patients where obtaining full flowing information is critical to exclude balanced and diffuse coronary artery disease or microvascular disease, which can otherwise be missed with other imaging modalities. 

In addition, for those patients who cannot exercise on a treadmill, the cardiac PET scan is a godsend. Patients undergoing revascularization procedures stand to gain especially from the PET imaging scan since it may be accurate in suggesting the area most likely to gain from coronary stent/angioplasty or bypass surgery. 

Therefore, a cardiac PET scan is typically prescribed to identify cardiovascular disease in symptomatic patients or those who are genetically predisposed like family history or elevated cholesterol levels. A PET scan also monitors heart health through a course of treatment after coronary artery disease has been discovered in a patient. It also serves to monitor a patient’s cardiac condition after an attack while treatment plans are being weighed. 

Conclusion 

Thus, we have discussed everything that is so special about a cardiac PET scan and the patients for whom it would prove to be the best. We have also compared the pros of a PET scan with all other conventional methods in so many ways. But it is a bit expensive and most of the patients would hesitate to go for it. It has been around for over 40 years, but it is hardly utilized, primarily due to the expense factor. 

Lack of education is also one of the reasons for its limited use. There are very few cardiologists who use it and are able to gain experience and training in this advanced technology. There is only limited knowledge and awareness of the benefits of cardiac PET scans and their findings. But the positive aspects are that it is becoming popular and sooner or later the majority will adopt it for the patient’s sake. 

FAQs 

Q. Does cardiac PET scan reveal blockages? 

Cardiac PET test is commonly used to diagnose heart ailments like coronary artery disease (CAD). The results of a cardiac PET scan enable physicians to observe any notable blockage of the coronary artery, and the extent of damage to the heart after a heart attack. 

Q. What are the beneficial impacts of PET scans? 

A PET scan is excellent at showing the functional activity of certain areas of the body as opposed to just presenting their visual shape. PET scans are primarily useful for examination of already established cases of cancer in order to determine the extent of cancer spread as well as the effectiveness of treatment. 

Q. What risk factors should we take into consideration of a cardiac PET scan? 

One must keep in mind the hazards and discomfort of a cardiac PET scan in spite of all precautions taken by the lab or facility. There may be some adverse events and issues in the procedure that have to be taken into account. It may involve heartbeat disorders, cardiac arrest, heart attack, and death during the cardiac stress test. 

Q. What is a disadvantage of a PET scan? 

PET scans can yield inaccurate results when the chemical balance in the patient’s body is interrupted. It holds particularly true among diabetic patients. Even if the patient has had food a couple of hours before the scan, it is likely to suffer as a result of blood insulin or blood sugar fluctuations.  

Q. Is PET scan good or bad? 

By and large, PET scans are the safest and they hardly cause any issues. In PET scans there is no significant amount of radiation from the radioactive tracer. Furthermore, it does not remain in the patient’s body for long. It is only that the patient has to drink a lot of water after a PET scan so as to flush out the radioactive drug from the body. 

Q. What is the price of a cardiac PET scan? 

The price of a cardiac PET scan can be from Rs 23000 to 27000/-. For an exact quotation contact a certified diagnostic centre at the earliest and also for best results. 

Q. Is a PET scan superior to an angiogram? 

A cardiac PET scan is the gold standard to determine whether to attempt stents or bypass surgery. It is superior to a coronary angiogram in determining the same. Quantitative myocardial perfusion by a cardiac PET scan is unmatched. 

Q. Where to find the best imaging centre for Cardiac PET scan? 

You can google search “best imaging centre near me” or just directly choose carebox for your body imaging scans.  

Cardiac PET CT Scan is in effect a heart imaging scan that essentially employs radiotracers, administered by Pills, gas or injected, in your body to test if you are afflicted with Poor blood circulation in the heart. Take care while taking the test. Your unnecessary movement may ruin the picture. Begin Following doctor’s orders prior to 48 hours of the appointment time and wait for 60-70 minutes in one location after consuming the nuclear medicine. waiting will permit radiotracers to locate the targeted location and build up for the specified intent. 

Quick facts About Cardiac PET CT Scan 

Here we’re gonna talk facts about Cardiac PET CT Scan: 

• Cardiac PET CT Scan involves radiotracers 

• An extremely sensitive scanner tracks the gamma rays discharged by the radio tracers 

• A computer then convert such signals into the fine images to generate report and detect the severity of the issue 

• This imaging test also informs whether tablets are required, or surgery needs to be performed to restore blood flow to the heart 

Does Cardiac PET CT Scan detect heart blockage? 

This examination is frequently performed to detect the condition of the heart. This imaging test also observe whether there is any major issue in Coronary artery disease (CAD) or not. It covers blockage too. To verify more information, doctor may also perform a stress (perfusion) test.  

Why Is A Cardiac PET Scan Done? 

Cardiac PET scan is a very advanced imaging method that can be used to diagnose various types of heart conditions. 

Some of the primary applications of a Cardiac PET scan are as follows: 

• Diagnosis of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Coronary artery disease results when the arteries responsible for supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, causing decreased blood flow and increased risk for heart attack.  

CAD can be diagnosed with a cardiac pet scan by identifying areas of decreased blood flow within the heart muscle. This information can be used to make treatment recommendations such as lifestyle changes, or interventions such as angioplasty or bypass surgery. 

• Assessment of Severity and Extent of Heart Attack: Heart attack can result from the blockage of blood supply to a region of the heart, causing heart muscle damage or death. A cardiac PET scan may help evaluate the severity and extent of a heart attack by identifying areas with decreased blood flow or injured heart muscle.  

• Measuring the Success of Treatments: Following a heart attack or other cardiac incident, cardiac PET scans can be employed to measure the success of treatments such as angioplasty or bypass surgery. Through a comparison between before and after treatment scans, physicians can identify whether blood flow to the heart has been restored and whether the treatment was successful. 

• Locating Regions of Functional Heart Tissue: In other instances, regions of heart muscle are injured but not yet irreversibly damaged. Such regions, referred to as hibernating myocardium, can respond to revascularization therapy such as angioplasty or coronary bypass surgery.  

Regions of functioning heart tissue can be located using a cardiac PET scan, which can assist in directing therapy and enhancing outcomes. 

• Assessment of the Risk of Future Cardiac Events: Cardiac PET scans can be employed to determine the risk of future cardiac events in patients with suspected or established heart disease.  

By measuring areas of decreased blood flow or scarred heart muscle, physicians can determine patients who might be at high risk for a heart attack or other cardiac event. The information can be used to direct treatment and enhance outcomes. 

Do I have to prepare myself for Cardiac PET CT Scan? 

Yes, you actually have to begin obeying doctor’s orders at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled diagnosis. Also ensure that you are not consuming restricted food items such as bakery products, alcohol, non-veg food items, junk food and others Check the entire list to comply with. Fatiguing pathology labs Physical activities are also withheld. change your style of tight clothing to a hospital robe and don’t forget to take metal objects off your body such as rings, head rings, chains, pendants, etc.  

Does Cardiac PET CT Scan Give The Correct Result? 

Accuracy ofCardiac PET CT Scan is however 84% – 93%. Normally every customer receives an original report to rely on but there could be some exceptions in certain cases. 

How My Body Responds After Cardiac PET CT Scan? 

This test is an OPD procedure. Therefore, you can generally go back to home/office after the test is completed successfully. You are nonetheless advised to stay away from children and women for their protection. Interaction with pregnant women may turn out to be very problematic both for mother and child. You may also notice signs of nuclear waste while passing urine. 

Who Requires Cardiac PET Scan? 

A cardiac PET, or Positron Emission Tomography, is a medical imaging modality that is utilized for the assessment of the functions of the heart. 

It is usually ordered to patients at risk of having a history of heart disease or heart conditions like: 

• Patients presenting with signs and symptoms of heart disease like palpitation, pain in the chest, or shortness of breath (Dyspnea). 

• Patients who have experienced heart attacks. 

• Patients who have experienced any other cardiac event. 

• Patients with a history of heart disease or risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia. 

• Patients with coronary artery disease. 

• Patients who have experienced heart failure. 

• Patients who are undergoing treatment for heart disease like medications or surgery, in order to assess the success of the treatment. 

• Patients who are candidates for cardiac procedures, such as heart bypass surgery or angioplasty. 

Do I Have To Take Some Sort of Protection For Cardiac PET CT Scan? 

Customers are not to move their body during Cardiac PET CT Scan. Body movement impacts images and reports to a large extent. Thus, it becomes challenging to assess the results. On the contrary, timely compliance with doctor’s advice facilitates the achievement of good reports. 

How Much Does a Cardiac PET Scan Cost? 

The cost of a Cardiac PET scan can vary significantly based on many factors, including the region in which the diagnostic facility is located, the technology used, the reputation of the diagnostic facility in the region, the insurance coverage for the procedure, and the facility of the medical throwers. Typically, the cost of a Cardiac PET scan is INR 27,000 INR. If you’re looking for cardiac PET Scan at the cheapest cost contact carebox. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. When doctor recommends for Cardiac PET CT Scan 

Doctors usually recommend undergoing Cardiac PET CT Scan when he desires to know the actual time facts about circulation of blood to heart, level of oxygen intake by body, rate of metabolism and other important facts. 

Q. What Does Cardiac PET CT Scan Show? 

Cardiac PET CT myocardial perfusion Scan pictures to track blood flow and general well-being of heart muscles. This examination can also be done to identify diseases in the coronary artery by assessing decreased blood flow. 

Q. What is the full form of PET CT scan? 

PET CT scan stands for Positron Emission Computed Tomography Scan 

Q. Does a cardiac PET scan show blockages? 

The cardiac PET test is frequently used to diagnose heart disease like coronary artery disease (CAD). The results of a cardiac PET scan help doctors see if there is any critical blockage of the coronary artery, and the extent of heart damage after a heart attack. 

Q. What are the benefits of PET scans? 

A PET scan is excellent at depicting the functional capacity of various areas of the body instead of just the appearance of things. PET scans are mostly beneficial for evaluating confirmed cases of cancer to see the spread of the cancer and the effectiveness of treatment. 

Q. What risk factors should we evaluate for a cardiac PET scan? 

We need to consider the risks and discomfort of a cardiac PET scan regardless of all of the safety protocols put in place by the facility, or lab. There may be some unfortunate incidents and complications during the procedure to consider such as disturbances of the heart rhythm, cardiac arrest, myocardial infarction, and death during the cardiac stress test. 

What is PSMA PET Scan? 

PET PSMA Scan (prostate-specific membrane antigen scan) is the new imaging tool for prostate cancer that detect cancer lesions. PSMA PET employs an FDA Approved PET-sensitive drug (68Ga-PSMA-11). The drug binds to prostate cancer cells and facilitates their localization. Prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men. Detection and management of prostate cancer will be significantly improved by the novel prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET imaging. 

How does PSMA PET function? 

The patient will be injected with radioactive tracer medicine 68Ga-PSMA-11. This medicine attaches to PSMA proteins. Prostate tumors overexpress this protein. The PET scan finds the tumors for more specific treatment because it detects the focused PSMA tracer. 

Why Do Doctors Recommend PSMA PET scan? 

The person has symptoms of prostate cancer and has a current diagnosis of the cancer, at this point they can take a PSMA PET scan. This will help decrease the risk of spreading cancer cells locally as the person previously had radiation or chemotherapy and has now had positive tests for PSA. The PSMA PET scan serves to identify cancer in its earliest stages and additionally gives healthcare to men already diagnosed with cancer. A PSMA PET scan is a successful restaging of prostate cancer. 

Role of PSMA PET scan in Prostate Cancer 

The 68Ga ligands used in the PSMA PET scan during the PSMA PET scan targets the prostate-specific antigen; therefore, it helps to identify and localize prostate cancer. As the process produces and utilizes positron energy, the actual qualitative image exists and may also identify the quantification parameters needed for the scan. 

As a result, the PSMA PET scan is 27% more accurate and reliable than whatever else is on the market. This is a vital scan for the developing, recurring, and potentially better ultimate care of prostate cancer. 

How does PSMA PET imaging differ from other prostate cancer imaging? 

A man-made radioactive amino acid is administered to patients through an existing standard process called fluciclovine PET. More precise prostate cancer imaging for better treatment planning and targeted care. It is more effective in detecting and eliminating cancers that have spread beyond the prostate to other regions of the body and pelvis.  It can identify much more prostate lesions than fluciclovine PET in men who had a radical prostatectomy but later saw a return of cancer. It is a better and more accurate method for localizing metastatic prostate cancer. 

What is the process of PSMA PET scan? 

First and primary responsibility is to comfort the patient and inform him about the PSMA PET scan: 

• The patient can be advised to bring any proof of ID, medical history (if available), and the prescription slip provided by 

• The patient can be taught well about food timings and advised not to perform any heavy exercise. 

• The technician will also request to drain the bladder prior to the test. 

• The expert will inject the radioactive material in the arm of the patient. The radioactive material (68Ga-PSMA-11) will bind to the PSMA. 

• The patient will be requested to relax upon a donut-shaped medicine table. 

• The scan will display the various images of the body. 

• The radiologist will examine the images. The protein overexpression will indicate that one is having prostate cancer. 

• The entire process of the PSMA PET scan takes only two hours. 

What Is The Cost of A PSMA PET scan? 

The cost of a PSMA PET scan varies according to the country and the diagnostic centers available in India. In India, the PSMA PET scan costs around 22000 INR to 24000 INR. 

AT the Carebox platform you may find PSMA PET scan tests under 15,000-20,000 INR only. Our main aim is to make healthcare more affordable and accessible to all. 

Best Diagnostic Center for PSMA PET scans 

A PSMA PET scan diagnosis will help to stage the cancer and treat the cancer. The question arises when searching for the Best Diagnostic center for Cancer Diagnosis. No worries- be part of the Best diagnostic center in your area. 

How we can help you find the Best Diagnostic center for a PSMA PET scan diagnosis in your area:  

The first thing to focus on when you are looking for the best center for PSMA PET scan diagnosis is Quality assurance. This test occasionally may give false positive results. The results must be accurate and remove any possibility of an error. 

Conclusion 

Precise diagnosis in the case of prostate cancer treatment is necessary for a successful treatment strategy. Cancer diagnosis quality has gone up due to State-of-the-art technology. It allows early detection of the issue and enough diagnostic information throughout all stages of prostate cancer and appropriate treatment planning. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. What is the full form of PSMA PET Scan? 

The full form of PSM PET scan is- Prostate Specific Membrane Antigen Scan. 

Q. Who should get PSMA PET? 

• Men who have been first diagnosed with prostate cancer and have a risk for metastatic disease. 

• Men who received radiation treatment or prostatectomy, but experienced biochemical recurrence indicated by an increasing PSA. 

Q. What is done during the PSMA PET Scan? 

• The radioactive compound drug 68Ga-PSMA-11 is administered to the patient. 

• The patient is instructed to wait for one hour before scanning. 

Q. How long does it take for a PSMA PET Scan? 

• The complete scanning procedure takes approximately 2 hours. 

• The PET scan procedure lasts for approximately 30 minutes.  

Q. Where to get the best PET scan? 

You can search for a pet scan near me or opt for a carebox for your PET Scan. 

Have you ever wondered why the cost of a CT scan is so poorly defined when your scan could be significantly more or less than what your neighbor had to pay? You may have scheduled the imaging because of some unexpected health issue or because you were told by your medical provider that you needed it for an assessment. No matter how you found yourself in this situation—a solid knowledge of how much a CT scan costs can help you make better, more informed, money-conscious decisions.  

CT scans are a powerful way to save lives and should not come at a price to your wallet. In this blog we will explore the cost of a CT scan, the factors that influence pricing, and we will provide some tips on how you can obtain great quality imaging at the best price. 

What Does a CT Scan Cost? 

Get A CT Scan At An Affordable Price! The cost of a CT (computed tomography) scan varies based on a variety of factors, including the type of CT scan required, the location where the scan is taken, and whether or not one has fitness insurance. 

Without fitness insurance, the cost of a CT scan can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. 

If you do have fitness insurance, the cost of a CT scan can also be covered partially or completely, depending on your insurance plan policy. 

But you may also still be responsible for paying a copay or deductible. 

It’s always a good idea to look at your insurance plan company or the facility where you draw to do the scan to get an estimate of the cost and to see what your insurance plan will pay for. 

What are the factors which impact the cost of a CT Scan? 

Numerous factors can influence the cost of a CT (computed tomography) scan, such as using: 

Type of CT scan 

The cost of a CT scan may vary based on the type of scan required.  As an illustration, a head or talent CT scan can also cost more than a chest or abdominal scan. 

Location 

The cost of a CT scan can vary depending on where you live and where the scan takes place. Costs can also be higher in urban areas and at certain medical facilities. 

Health insurance 

If you carry fitness insurance, the cost of a CT scan can sometimes be covered in whole or partially, depending on your plan. 

Out-of-pocket costs 

Even where you carry fitness insurance, you may also still be responsible for paying a portion of the cost of the CT scan, e.g., a deductible or copay.  

Facility 

The cost of a CT scan can vary depending on the medical facility and the location the scan is conducted. Prices can also be higher at hospitals compared to independent imaging centers. 

Complexity 

The level of complexity of the CT scan can further influence the cost. For instance, if distinction dye is utilized throughout the scan, the price may further be more.  

Additional services 

Other services, like interpretation of the scan via a radiologist, could further influence the price of the CT scan. 

It’s necessary to try it with your healthcare issuer or insurance plan organization to obtain an estimate of the cost of a CT scan and find out what your insurance plan will pay for. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. Which is costly, MRI or CT? 

Between MRI and CT scan, MRI scan is considered costly as this uses high magnetic field and proper care.  

Q. Which is better, CT scan or MRI? 

Both scans are best to detect abnormalities in the body but, MRI scan can detect even soft tissues whereas CT scan can be used in emergency situations and this use for bone imaging. 

Q. Is CT scan safe? 

Yes, CT scans are safe but this involves some ionizing radiation which can be harmful for some. So before undergoing a CT scan, consult with a doctor and radiologists. 

Q. Is a CT scan noisy? 

CT scan doesn’t act noisy, just a little or tiny amount of noise that is not loud or uncomfortable. 

Q. What is a CT scan test for?  

CT scan is used to detect tumors, fractures, infections, and internal injuries. 

Q. Are imaging centers cheaper than hospitals? 

Yes, imaging centres don’t involve room and other charges so it can be cheaper than private hospitals.  To find the cheapest imaging centres near you contact carebox, 

A thoracic MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of the spine is usually ordered when a patient experiences persistent or unexplainable pain in the mid-back, particularly if accompanied by neurological symptoms, as well as when other imaging modalities – such as x-rays or CT – have not provided the desired diagnostic clarity.  

When Might You Need a Spinal MRI 

You will surely have Spinal MRI scans performed if you experience difficulty breathing or coughing after suffering a spinal injury — this is not a good sign, and it is an emergency situation. 

The Spinal MRI also allows your doctor to look at the small bones called vertebrae that form your spinal column, the spinal disks, spinal canal, and spinal cord. The test is intended to look for: 

• Broken bones in your spine 

• Injuries 

• Infection 

• Swelling 

• Problems with your spinal cord 

• Bulging or slipped spinal disks 

• Tumors 

• Strange parts or curves in your spine 

• Compression (or pressure) of your spinal cord or your nerves 

Your doctor may also consider a spine MRI to help plan spinal surgeries, such as those for pinched nerves, or for procedures involving epidural or steroid injections.  

Ongoing Severe Thoracic Pain 

Unexplained ongoing pain: If a patient has ongoing severe upper or mid back pain which does not improve with rest, physical therapy or medications, then MRI is warranted, especially if it has been happening for longer than 4-6 weeks.  

Pain with neurological features: If pain is associated with feelings of numbness, tingling or weakness in the chest, abdomen or lower body, then MRI can assess if there is nerve involvement or compression or spinal cord involvement 

Neurological Issues 

Myelopathy: Problems with ambulation, loss of balance, or bowel/bladder dysfunction can be signs of spinal cord compression or some other abnormality, and warrant MRI investigation. 

Radiculopathy: Notice that this is a description of radiating pain, numbness, or weakness along the course of the intercostal nerves, which tells us that the thoracic nerve root is involved. 

Structural Abnormalities 

Scoliosis or kyphosis: MRI allows the assessment of the curvature of the spine, while also evaluating for any potential complications, such as compression of spinal cord or disc herniations. 

Degenerative disc disease: When degenerative changes are suspected to be part of the diagnosis, MRI will provide the surgeon with excellent images of the discs, vertebrae, and soft tissues. 

Duration of the Test and Understanding Results: 

The MRI images are reviewed and analyzed by the radiologist who will interpret the images and provide a report to the physician who ordered the MRI. The physician will discuss the results with the individual and subsequently start thinking about treatment approaches. 

Typical Symptoms for Ordering the Test: 

The arms, legs, or trunk; or if a spinal cord injury or spinal tumor are suspected. An MRI can be used to evaluate an indefinite number of conditions related to the thoracic spine, including a herniated disc, spinal cord compression, spinal stenosis, tumors, infections, and so on. 

conclusion  

MRI of the thoracic spine is a very good method of diagnosing many different types of spinal abnormalities that may impact overall health and wellbeing. there is little to no preparation to undergo the test other than removing any metal objects. A radiologist will interpret the test results, and then the ordering physician will review the results, followed by a discussion regarding appropriate follow up and treatment recommendations. Health care examinations could and should include spinal exams, and MRI of the thoracic spine could potentially be included with corporate health examination programs to help screen and manage skeletal problems. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. Why would a doctor order a thoracic MRI? 

A doctor may order a thoracic MRI for many reasons, including pain, numbness, weakness, or possible compression of the spinal cord in the mid-back portion of the spine. It is a good modality for examining mid-back issues because an MRI demonstrated an ideal method of viewing soft tissue, such as the spinal cord, discs and nerves  

Q. What will the MRI of the thorax show? 

Thoracic MRI has excellent soft tissue detail that can identify lesions in organs, vessels, and muscle. 

Q. How do I know if I need an MRI on my back? 

If you are suffering from chronic or serious back pain, and especially if you are suffering from other symptoms such as nerve compression pain that shoots down your legs, or loss of bladder or bowel control, then you may need an MRI of your back.  

Q. What organs does a thoracic MRI show? 

An MRI often captures some information regarding the nearby organs, even if there is an abnormality of the spinal cord, discs or surrounding soft tissues.An MRI of the chest looks  

Q. How to book an MRI scan of the brain? 

You can reserve an MRI scan of your brain in Rohini through the carebox website by searching for your MRI scan or other scans or call us at the given number on the website to book. 

Although spinal MRI studies are typically safe, there are some possible adverse effects: allergic reactions (if contrast dye was used), claustrophobia, and discomfort from the noise produced by the procedure. The likelihood of side effects from spinal MRI studies is small and (although very, very unlikely) a small number of devices can be affected by the strong magnetic field. In addition, there may be a risk of kidney problems with some contrast agents. 

Possible side-effects from an MRI scan 

MRI scans do not involve X-rays, therefore any of the possible concerns associated with X-ray images or CT scans (which use X-rays) are not associated with MRI scans. 

There are rare instances where an individual may have a reaction to the contrast agent that is sometimes utilized. 

Pregnant women are typically advised not to have an MRI, unless essential. Although it is deemed safe, little is known regarding the longer term implications of the strong magnetic fields on a developing baby. 

What is the method behind an MRI scan?  

Your body has millions of hydrogen atoms. When you step inside an MRI scanner the following happens:  

• A strong magnetic field aligns particles called protons which are a part of the hydrogen atoms. All the protons align parallel to the magnetic field, like tiny magnets.  

• The radio waves knock the protons from their orientation.  

• While the protons are realigning back to their original position, they emit radio signals.  

• The protons in various tissues of the body realign at differing speeds. Therefore, the emitted radio signals from different body tissues vary.  

• These radio signals are detected by a receiver in the scanner.  

• The receiver sends the radio signals to a computer.  

What to expect after the MRI scan? 

There are no after effects from the scan, and you can return to normal activities straight after the scan.  

It is normal to wait for more weeks before hearing anything about your results. You will only hear about urgent findings sooner than that a radiologist will speak to a doctor before you hear about these. The result belongs to the person who requested the scan a hospital consultant will give you your results at your next appointment.  

Claustrophobia and Anxiety 

The number one fear from an MRI scan experience is claustrophobia or anxiety. The machine is designed to make patients lie still inside a narrow, tube-like structure for a while. The enclosed space can be difficult to deal with for many, especially those with enclosed space issues. 

Noise Discomfort  

MRI machines can make loud sounds while the scan is happening which can feel distracting and uncomfortable for some patients; as the magnetic fields switch on and off, they generate noise. The MRI machine is loud when it is switching; this is normal for the MRI. 

If you have claustrophobia,  

They’ll have solutions like sedation, anti-anxiety medication, or maybe an open MRI machine that is less restrictive. Listening to music or having someone in the room may also help you feel less anxious. 

Alternative Solution: Most MRI centers will either supply earplugs or headphones to assuage the noise, or they will provide you the chance to bring music or audio book to listen to during your MRI to distract from the noise. 

Gadolinium Allergy 

Improvement solution: If you have a history of having an allergy or felt you had an allergic reaction with a contrast material, take that information to your provider. They can run a pre-scan allergy test, or they may elect to use a different imaging approach. Allergic reaction symptoms can include hives, itching, nausea, and infrequently trouble breathing. 

Resolution Solution: Informing the MRI Technician of any discomfort, and they may provide a pad/cushion or reposition you slightly to relieve the pain.  

Conclusion  

Undergoing a spinal MRI is a safe, non-invasive scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves (not ionizing radiation) to obtain diagnostic images. Most people will have no side effects from having an MRI, although, individuals may have some negative short-term experiences (such as some anxiety surrounding having it done, the noise of the scanning machine, 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q. What organs does a thoracic MRI show? 

A thoracic MRI is used to visualize primarily the thoracic spine, spinal cord, and soft tissues surrounding these structures.  

Q. What will the MRI of the thorax show? 

The thorax MRI is a highly detailed imaging study that provides precise images of the thoracic cavity structures, which include the mediastinum, chest wall, pleura, heart, and blood vessels, and is able to recognize numerous anomalies. 

Q. When is a thoracic MRI needed? 

A thoracic MRI is generally used after failed or persistent severe symptoms in the middle back area of the spine like pain, numbness, or additional neurological symptoms. 

Q. Can a thoracic MRI show lung cancer? 

MRI tends to follow along behind for a variety of different reasons, with only a few specific situations where it could provide more clarity than CT.  

Q. Where to get the best MRI scan of the brain? 

You can opt for carebox, to get  your MRI scan of brain done.  

CT scans are used to screen for a variety of conditions, and sometimes certain symptoms indicate that a CT may be necessary. Symptoms including severe headache, dizziness, and weakness or numbness relating to symptoms of a stroke would merit a CT. Symptoms including chest pain, shortness of breath, or swelling of your leg, particularly if these are associated with suspected blood clots could preclude CT. Trauma, including head injuries, or internal injury possibly from accidents may all need to be screened by CT. Other symptoms are persistent or severe abdominal pain, possibly kidney stones, and infection symptoms like fever and pain, especially in places like the lungs and abdomen.   

Head and Neurologic Symptoms 

Unexplained or severe headache: Persistent, sudden, or severe headaches can be debilitating and can affect normal activities and can cause you to wonder whether you should go to the ER with neurological deficits. If there are neurological findings, you can consider placing a role for CT to rule out more serious causes of the headache, such as brain tumor, bleeding, or stroke.  

Dizziness, confusion, or visual changes: These conditions may be indicating a serious potential condition such as a stroke or bleeding in the brain and may require imaging as an emergency.  

Head injury: With any significant head trauma, but especially with loss of consciousness, vomiting, or amnesia, CTs of the head usually are performed to assess for skull fractures, bleeding in the brain, or swelling. 

Symptoms Associated with the Chest 

Chest Pain: Unexpected or unusual chest pain may be the result of an issue with the heart, dissection in the aorta, pulmonary embolism, or other acute vascular emergency that requires prompt treatment, and CT can aid in the rapid treatment of any of these. 

Shortness of breath or swelling of the legs: These may be indicators of a pulmonary embolism or congestive heart failure; both can be evaluated using CT. 

Abdominal and Pelvic Symptoms 

Severe abdominal pain or persistent abdominal pain: CT imaging can demonstrate if there is an acute abdomen presentation whether an appendicitis, nephrolithiasis, bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, or intra-abdominal bleeding, when the methodology is not obvious. 

Suspected infections or inflammatory processes: such as pancreatitis, liver abscess or inflammatory bowel disease, usually require CT use for diagnosis, management, and follow-up. 

Injury and Trauma 

Major Trauma: Many patients receive a CT scan after car accidents, falls, and other serious injuries to see if they have internal bleeding, organ damage or complicated fractures of bones. 

Suspended Spinal Injury: After trauma, with symptoms of back pain, numbness or weakness, some patients may require a spinal CT scan to look for fractures or damage to spinal cord. 

Assessment of Tumors and cancers 

Concern for malignant disease: If you are having any of the following symptoms – painful lumps that are unexplained, pain in your body that goes on for too long, or any abnormal imaging findings you may need to get a CT scan to find or stage tumors in your brain, chest, abdomen, or pelvis or just monitor your progress.  

Monitoring treatment response: Patients receiving treatment for cancer, may have follow up CT scans after having some or several treatments in order to assess if their tumors are getting smaller or if their disease is progressing. 

To Assess Blood Vessel Disorders 

Signs of serious vascular diseases, stroke, peripheral vascular disease (PAD), and carotid artery disease (CAD), are included in the many conditions to consider when there is suspicion of problems with blood vessels.  

With a CT scan, your doctor can view blood vessels and determine if there are related causes for risk of stroke or the advancement of diseases and conditions that could cause these or other fatal events. Compared to surgery and biopsy, a CT scan is a much safer and less invasive way to assess the condition of your blood vessels. 

Vascular and Cardiac Symptoms 

Stroke-like symptoms: Weakness, trouble speaking, or drooping of one side of the face occurring suddenly are all medical emergencies that are first evaluated with a CT scan to determine if the client has an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.  

Conclusion 

CT scans are considered when the patient’s symptoms point to serious and possibly life threatening conditions or ambiguous pathology that requires complicated cross-sectional imaging to inform diagnosis. The order for a CT is based on weighing the urgency and seriousness of the presenting symptoms, the chance of meaningful findings, and the necessity of avoiding unnecessary additional radiation exposure. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q. What are the symptoms of needing a CT scan? 

Some symptoms indicate severe trouble in many locations of the body, like the head , chest , abdomen, or spine. With these types of symptoms, it may be necessary to do a CT scan instead of an X-ray if a more detailed picture is needed.  

Q. Why would a doctor ask for a CT scan? 

A CT scan may be performed at a doctor’s direction to aid in the diagnosis, monitor, or treatment guidance of a vast number of conditions, injuries, diseases, including infections, injuries, and cancers.  

Q. What is the Full form of CT scan? 

CT scan stands for the Computed Tomography scan. 

Q. Can a CT scan detect all problems? 

No, a CT scan does not see everything. CT scans are good at seeing many kinds of conditions/injuries/infections and cancers. 

Q. Is it serious if I need a CT scan? 

No, needing a CT scan does not mean you have a serious problem  but it can be an important diagnostic instrument for many illnesses. Although CT scans require radiation exposure. 

In itself, a CT scan isn’t’ “serious.” It’s a medical procedure that uses radiation when doctors want sharper images of a patient’s body parts to help formalize a diagnosis or monitor a known condition. The recommendation for you to have a CT scan is a decision based on your doctor’s knowledge of the possible benefits to your health and your health situation. Normally, the risks associated when using radiation are well worth the benefits. 

What is a CT scan machine? 

There are some important parts of a CT scan machine.The gantry is the ring-shaped part of the scanner and where the X-ray tube and digital X-ray detectors are located.  

New or Sudden Neurological Symptoms 

• New, severe headaches. 

• Loss of consciousness. 

• Seizures. 

• Slurred speech. 

• Change in vision. 

• Persistent vomiting. 

• Memory loss. 

• New weakness or numbness in any part of your body. 

These signs may indicate conditions such as stroke, brain bleed, brain tumor, or traumatic brain injury. Because CT scans are fast and accessible, CT scans are usually the first imaging investigation in these situations allowing for relatively rapid diagnosis and treatment. 

Abdominal and Pelvic Symptoms 

• Severe – or unexplained – abdominal pain.  

• Unexplained weight loss.  

• Constant nausea or vomiting.  

• Blood in the urine or stool.  

• Possible kidney stone or appendicitis.  

CT scans can identify tumors, infections, bowel obstructions, kidney stones, appendicitis , diverticulitis and other emergency cases of abdominal emergency situations. CT scans are also helpful when physical examination and conditioning tests are not evidently pointing towards any specific diagnosis. 

Why might you need a CT Scan? 

There are many potential reasons your provider may order a CT scan. For example, a CT scan can: 

Evaluate muscular and/or bony issues such as bone tumors and bone fractures.   

Assist in procedures such as surgical, biopsy or radiotherapy.  

Detects and monitors progression of disease and/or conditions such as cancer, coronary artery disease, lung nodules and liver masses.  

Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment for some diseases, such as cancer treatments.  

Evaluate internal injury caused by trauma as well as any bleeding. 

Does a CT Scan Show? 

CT scans can find bone and joint problems such as complicated bone fractures and tumors. 

They can show internal injuries and bleeding, such as after a car accident. 

They can help find a tumor, blood clot, excess fluid, or infection. 

Doctors use CT scans for treatment plans, it guides them with procedures like surgeries, and radiation therapy. 

Identify The Cause Of Chronic Pain 

Chronic pain, specifically in the back or spine, can originate from many different locations. Sometimes, a fracture, or a problem with another area of your body can be producing chronic back pain. This is known as referred pain. A CT scan can help your doctor evaluate the origin of your chronic pain so that you can get the right treatment. 

This is an important test to help your doctor assess if there is a fracture, herniated disk, or scoliosis. CT allows your doctor to visualize your spine prior to surgery, and then post-operatively as well. In some cases, a CT scan may be used with an MRI to more accurately assess arthritis or infections.  

Conclusion 

The recommendation for a CT scan is an example of the good faith to which patients are entitled concerning providers giving diagnostic tests or ordering referrals for diagnostic tests to monitor, or search for, health-related issues. This may be an important element of the overall decision-making process to arrive at the best diagnosis to ultimately give you the best health care; however, it does not necessarily mean that. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q. Should I be worried if I had a CT scan? 

CT scans use radiation and there is a small theoretical possibility of cancer with any kind of radiation exposure, many doctors and experts agree that a CT scan has more benefits than risk, especially if it is medically important. Doctors make sure to put together the benefits and risks before recommending the availability of a CT scan. 

Q. Is getting a CT scan a big deal? 

While a CT scan can offer some beneficial information for diagnosis, there is some radiation exposure and a few small risks that you might like to keep in mind. Whether the CT scan is a ‘big deal’ truly depends on individual aspects of your situation and reasons for having the CT scan. 

Q. What are the symptoms that require a CT scan? 

CT scans may be requested for a range of symptoms and diagnoses including a head injury, suspected stroke, suspected aneurysm, unexplained headaches or dizziness, abdominal pain or abdominal masses, suspected kidney stones or obstructions; such as in kidney, ureter, bladder scans. CT scans are also used to diagnose and monitor cancers, heart disease, blood clots, conditions of the bowel, and multiple conditions of bone and spine disease.  

Q. Is it serious to get a CT scan? 

Reasons Why You May Require a CT Scan – Health Images 

Although CT scans involve an exposure to radiation, it is a relatively low risk that often is far worth the actual risk of gaining the correct diagnosis and getting the correct treatment. Scans are effective at detecting many different conditions. The doctors are appropriately weighing the risk versus benefits before recommending a CT scan. 

Q. What is the Full form of CT scan? 

CT scan stands for the Computed Tomography scan. 

NCCT is the abbreviation of Non-contrast computed tomography, which is the advanced form of the X-ray imaging technology to produce images of the scanned region. NCCT can be performed on various regions of the body and is specified as per the region to be scanned such as NCCT Head. This scan is utilized to produce the images of the abnormalities of the head. NCCT head is performed to look for injuries, bad headaches, dizziness, bleeding, brain tumours, stroke etc. without radiopharmaceutical glucose or use of contrast dye.  

What Does NCCT Head Reveal? 

Head CT shows high-quality images of the head and related tissues with the following abnormalities: 

• To observe any injury or fracture of skull bones or anywhere in the head. 

• To observe cancer and tumour in the head. 

• To observe any brain haemorrhage. 

• To find the blockage of blood vessels in the head. 

• To find build-up fluid in the skull (hydrocephalus). 

• To find injury to the face, brain or around the head. 

• To find any stroke. 

• To search for the change in head size. 

• To search for the reason for the headache. 

• To search for the reason for hearing loss. 

Procedure for NCCT Head? 

NCCT Head scan is done in a CT scanner machine, which is a doughnut-shaped machine. The patient is requested to remove any metal they are wearing and instructed to lie on the scanner bed. The scanner bed moves in the scanner and the technician begins to acquire images. The patient will need to minimize movement and stay relaxed in order to acquire good scanning images. Excessive movement blurs images therefore in children sedative medication is administered to restrict movement. The average NCCT head scan would last for about 10 to 20 minutes. 

What is the price of a NCCT Head in Delhi? 

The price of NCCT head scans in Delhi varies with the area, healthcare facility and quality of healthcare provider. You can opt carebox for the NCCT head scan screening tests as they are the best facility, quality, and Government accreditations and have experience in healthcare with reasonable prices and offers available.  

Conclusion 

NCCT head is a painless and non-invasive diagnostic test which is employed to diagnose and identify the various abnormal head conditions. This is the improved version of the X-ray method which does not involve any contrast material. The process of the test is straightforward and costs approximately 10-20 minutes. 

Frequently Asked Questions  

Q. What is NCCT head? 

Head NCCT is the non-contrast computed tomography a non-invasive imaging diagnostic device that employs the use of X-rays in the detection of head disorders and diseases. 

Q. What is revealed by NCCT head scans? 

NCCT head scan reveals injuries, fractures, tumours, cancers, inflammation, blockage, infections, blood flow abnormalities etc. 

Q. Do CT and NCCT scans differ? 

CT can or cannot utilize the contrast material whereas NCCT scan never utilizes the contrast material for scanning. 

Q. Difference between a CT scan and PET scan is that a CT scan utilizes the X-rays with computer technology whereas PET scans utilize radioactive tracers for detection of abnormalities. 

Q. When to get an NCCT head scan? 

Patients should never neglect any symptom of head abnormalities or disorders. Patients should undertake NCCT head screening in order to prevent any delay in treatment and diagnosis. (Click for screening) 

Q. How long does an NCCT head scan take? 

A routine NCCT head scan would take 10-20 minutes. 

Q. Is a NCCT head scan painful? 

NCCT head scan is not painful, but certain patients can feel uneasy if they are claustrophobic (afraid of closed spaces). 

Q. What are the side effects of a NCCT head scan? 

There are no side effects of NCCT head scans apart from certain individuals having an allergy to contrast. 

Q. How to find a NCCT head scan center near me? 

You can search NCCT head scan near me in Google search for the centres nearest to you or click here for consultation.