CT and MRI are two distinct forms of medical imaging that produce pictures of organs and tissues within your body. Although CT and MRI have some differences, they also differ from each other. Since they are different, physicians can opt to use one form of imaging over another.
Both MRIs and CTs are painless and non-invasive, and both can assist your physician in diagnosing and treating an illness. Both of these tests require you to lie on a table that then moves into a scanner. You will need to hold very still throughout both tests so the scan will be able to get good pictures. In CT and MRI, the technician does leave the room, but you can still speak with the person using an intercom connection.
CTs and MRIs make images differently. A CT scan builds a couple of images, or “slices,” using x-rays from various angles. An MRI scan builds images through magnetic fields and radio waves. There are several other significant differences between the two medical imaging technologies.
About CT Scans
CT stands for computed tomography. CT scans are also called computerized axial tomography, or CAT scans.
In a CT, you’ll be lying on a moving table that goes through a big, doughnut-shaped scanner. A computer fuses information gathered to form 3-dimensional images of your bones and soft tissue.
Physicians order CT scans when they are seeking out or assessing:
- Head injury
- Bone breaks
- Pneumonia
- Bleeding within the body
- Internal organ issues
- Tumors
- Cancer development or the success of cancer treatment as a result
About MRI Scans
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI scan, is great at providing images of soft tissue, organs, or ligaments, and it makes your doctor’s life simpler to be able to spot abnormal tissue, soft tissue injuries, torn ligaments, bulging disks, and so forth.
As with the CT scan, you will be lying on a table for the MRI. The MRI machine itself is similar to a donut shape, but thicker. MRIs are also very loud, and you may be given earplugs or headphones to muffle the noise.
Physicians can also prescribe MRIs in place of CTs if they require producing more precise and detailed images. Physicians tend to order MRI scans for diagnosing bone, joint, and organ problems, particularly those involving the:
- Brain
- Breasts
- Heart
- Arteries
- Veins
- Joints
- Wrists
- Ankles
Physicians can also prescribe MRIs in place of CT scans if they have suspected certain conditions, including:
- Soft tissue problems
- Torn ligaments
- Herniated disks
- Comparing the Risks of MRI Scans and CT Scans
Both CT scans and MRI do carry some risk, based on the kind of imaging and the quality of the imaging.
One of the biggest differences between the two scans is that CT scans use a very small amount of ionizing radiation, while MRI does not utilize radiation. Ionizing radiation that CT scans emit can influence biological tissue, but as per the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, cancer risk due to exposure to CT scan radiation is usually minimal. In addition, x-rays and CT scans are not safe when a woman is pregnant, so doctors can request an MRI instead.
Since MRIs involve the use of strong magnets, anything metallic at all in the body, including metal plates, rods and screws, is dangerous. Metal implants could shift or overheat when put in the presence of the magnetic fields of an MRI.
Risk of CT Scans Are:
- Harm to unborn children
- Being exposed to a very small amount of radiation
- Possible bad reaction to contrast dyes administered
Risk of MRIs Are:
Possible effects to metals in the body by magnets during MRI
Loud and startling machine noises and even induce hearing problems
A rise in body temperature after prolonged MRIs
Claustrophobia
You must see a doctor before an MRI if you have some implants, such as:
- A pacemaker
- Artificial joints
- An IUD
- Eye implants
Physicians have CT scans done more frequently since CT scans cost less than MRI but still make good images. CTs are quieter than MRIs too. CT scan is quicker and can create generalized images of tissue, organs, and bone structure; MRIs take longer, but are better pictures.
For more information about CT and MRI scans, and to learn which is most suitable for you, discuss with your physician or book your appointment through carebox. carebox helps you to find the best imaging centre near you through our easy interface and our partnership with India’s top rated diagnostic centres in Delhi.
Conclusion
CT Scan and MRI scans are the most powerful diagnostic tools used to detect abnormalities in the body. MRI is more expensive than CT Scan. CT Scan can find abnormalities like Head injury, bone breaks, pneumonia, bleeding within the body, internal organ issues, tumors etc. Whereas MRI can help you in detecting brain, breasts, heart, arteries abnormalities. Understanding the difference can help you to get the right imaging which can help you in early diagnosis.
FAQS
Q. What is the full form of CT scan and MRI?
The full form of CT is Computed Tomography and MRI is Magnetic Resonance and Imaging.
Q. How to book a “CT and MRI scan near me”?
You can book your test through carebox. Our partnered labs are NABL & NABH accredited, who offer best diagnostic services across Delhi, NCR.
Q. What MRI can show which CT scan can’t?
MRI shows soft tissues abnormalities and CT scan is good for bone fractures visualizing. MRI shows soft tissues abnormalities clearly by using high magnetic fields.
Q. Are MRI and CT scans harmful?
There are no direct side effects of MRI and CT scan, if you’ve followed all the precautions and followed your providers guidelines and advice. You might feel some discomfort but it will be temporary for which no mediations or extra care is needed, but if you feel any allergic reaction consult with your doctor immediately.