What is the difference between ultrasound and CT scanning?
ultrasonic and computer tomography (CT) are diagnostic tools that allow doctors to view internal systems of patients without invasive surgery. Ultrasound and CT scan can be described in many different situations and sometimes can be used interchangeably for diagnostic purposes. Although both tools can be used to visualize internal systems and diagnose similar conditions, there are several differences between them.
One primary difference between ultrasound and CT scanning is functional technology. Ultrasound uses high -frequency sound waves that reflect the internal organs and create echoes. These echoes can then be converted into a two -dimensional image of a gray degree for viewing. CT scan is a basically targeted X -ray machine that takes several two -dimensional X -rays around a single point, allowing the creation of a 3D image.
Another main difference between ultrasound and CT scan is the type of device used. Machines ultrasound are usually mobile systemsthat connect a wand known as a converter, with a monitor screen. A doctor or ultrasonic technician manually passes through a wand over the exploited area of the body and creates a real -time image on the screen and allows you to store static images. CT machines are large stationary devices that usually consist of a large nut -shaped device surrounding the table. The patient must always lie on the table while the imaging system takes X -rays.
A physician who chooses a diagnosis between ultrasound and CT scanning will have to consider several important factors. Although both techniques can be used to diagnose similar conditions, the exposure of radiation necessary for scanning CT may pose a risk to some patients. Pregnant women and children are usually recommended against CT procedures because there are health risks related to the level of radiation exposure. Some doctors also recommend women about the birth of age tohave avoided CT scanning of the abdominal region because there is little chance that radiation could adversely affect fertility or damage if a woman does not know that she is pregnant.
Given the radiation risk, if both ultrasound and CT scan can offer similarly effective display results, the doctor may first decide to order ultrasound. This process can also be easier in the patient because ultrasound is generally cheaper than CT scanning and may have shorter waiting time. However, if the scanning CT is evaluated at higher sensitivity for a certain condition, doctors may choose to choose CT. CT scan can also be ordered if ultrasound provides inconclusive results to explore the problem from another angle.