What is the difference between MRI and CT scanning?
Although some terms are often interchangeable in some patients, MRI and CT scan are two completely different diagnostic tests. Although they are both medical imaging tests that doctors can use to diagnose the problem inside the body, MRI and CT scanning use different methods to create images. Other differences between MRI and CT scan are the quality of certain types of images, test length, contrasting agents used during procedure and safety. During MRI, the patient lies on the table and is inserted into a long cylinder, which is basically a large electromagnetic field. Radio waves inside the tube produce internal images.
CT or computed tomography is a test technique that uses radiation to create internal images. CT scanner rotates around the patient's body. While this happens, X -rays pass through the scanner to create pictures.
The noble difference between MRI and CT scanning is the quality of certain pictures. While scanning MRI will usually produce a produceVat much brighter images, usually used to obtain images of tumors and soft tissues, as well as brain and spinal cord injuries. Unlike CT scanning, it is usually not good when trying to get images of body cavities such as chest or abdomen. CT scan is also considered the best way to get precise bone pictures.
historically, both MRI and CT scanning took up to an hour or more. Today, however, both of these procedures are often completed much faster. However, it takes a little longer to complete MRI.
During MRI and CT scanning, contrasting substances can be used. It is a type of dye that can be used to increase visibility in certain areas of the body, such as blood vessels or gastrointestinal tract. The contrasting agent used during MRI, Gadolinium, often causes less side effects than the barium or iodine usually used during CT scan.
because it uses radiation as a means toCreating an image, there is concerns about CT scan safety. Some research suggests that obtaining these types of scans may increase the risk of cancer. Because MRI does not use any radiation, it is considered much safer. However, those with an artificial pacemaker should avoid getting MRI, as this could cause a breaking of the pacemaker.