What Is The Difference Between An MRI And A CT Scan?

After an injury, the doctor uses a scan to see the inside of your body. The physician then analyzes the image to detect (conditions such as) joint damage and tumors in the internal organs. Also, if you have any medical condition, the technician will use the scan to diagnose the issues. In doing so, CT and MRI scans are the most common ways of creating a detailed image of your internal body. While both CT and MRI scans have similar uses, they deliver images differently.

What Are CT and MRI Scans? 

CT scan (Computerized Tomography) is a pain-free method of detecting various health conditions. It uses X-ray technology to capture accurate images. Generally, a CT scan examines cancer development, internal bleeding, tumors in the organs, and bone fracture. Many people prefer the CT scan method because it is cheap and produces detailed images. Also, it is a low-risk method that is good for examining a large area.

On the other hand, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imagery) scan uses magnets and radio waves to create more accurate images. During the scan, the patient lies down in the MRI, which is a donut-shaped machine that bounces off fat cells and water molecules in the body. This method produces clear images than the CT scan. Physicians use MRI scans to diagnose joints, heart,  breast, brain, ankles, and blood vessels. 

Difference between the Risk of CT and MRI Scans

The main difference between a CT scan and an MRI scan is that the CT scan uses x-rays while the MRI uses radio waves. However, an MRI scan produces superior images. CT scan and MRI scan are safe procedures that produce images of the internal parts of the body. Nevertheless, they are cause risks in the human body.

CT scan can expose you to ionizing radiation, which can increase the risk of cancer. But some factors can determine the effects of radiation from the CT scan. They include:

• The age, gender, and size of the patient
• The design of the scanner used
• Dose of the radiation
• Pregnancy

Thus, not everyone is likely to experience issues related to CT scans.

On the other hand, an MRI scan can produce loud sounds, which might cause issues with the ears. Also, people with claustrophobia might find it challenging to withstand the noise. So doctors might recommend the use of headphones or earplugs to prevent you from hearing the sound.

What Are The Benefits Of Using CT And MRI Scans?

1. CT scan benefits

A CT scan can produce images of the entire body. Mostly, doctors use this scan to diagnose cancer. They can check whether the treatment is working or whether cancer has come back. Also, they can survey your entire body to see the parts where cancer has spread. For the accuracy of your diagnosis, a physician can consider 3d ct scan. 3D images come with more details to help the doctor create the right treatment plan.

1. RMI scan benefits

RMI scan can detect some diseases that the CT scan cannot. For instance, it can be hard to detect liver, prostate, or uterine cancer using a CT scan. But these conditions show better on the RMI scan.

Which Is The Right Scan? CT scan or MRI Scan?

The two types of scans produce high-quality images. But a doctor will recommend a procedure based on factors such as:

1. Your health condition.

 For instance, the physician can recommend an MRI scan if you are pregnant to prevent potential risks to the unborn baby.

1. The level of details needed.

The doctors can suggest an MRI scan if they need a more detailed image of the organs, ligaments, or soft tissues. But they can recommend a CT scan if they want a general image for the internal organs.

1. Claustrophobia issues

Do you experience mild anxiety or panic attacks when in a confined space? The doctor will look for a procedure that cannot cause fear. He can recommend a CT scan if you have claustrophobia problems.

Besides, a physician can decide on the type of scan to use based on your budget. CT scan is less expensive but still produces quality images. Also, they are fast to create generalized images of the internal organs of the body. On the other hand, MRI takes longer but produces more-detailed images.

CT scan and MRI scan are safe methods of imaging internal organs of the body. However, they produce images differently. MRI scan uses strong radio waves and magnets, while a CT scan uses X-rays. The physician can choose an MRI scan to get a better overall image and a CT scan to obtain an image for large areas.