CT scans and MRI
scans both provide diagnostic images of the inside of your body. However, they
accomplish this important task in very different ways. Here are a few key
differences between CT scans and MRI scans.
CT, which is short
for Computerized Tomography.
MRI, which is the
short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
1. Radiation
CT scan uses x-ray technology to
produce diagnostic images. These x-rays require a small dose of ionizing
radiation. The CT scanner rotates on an axis, taking multiple 2D images of a
person’s body from different angles. When a computer places all of these
cross-sectional images together on a monitor, the result is a 3D image of the
inside of the body that can reveal the presence of disease or injury to a
physician.
MRI scans do not work this way.
Instead of using ionizing radiation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses
radio waves and powerful magnets to produce diagnostic images. An MRI scanner
can apply a magnetic field that lines up all of your body’s protons. Radio
waves are applied to these protons in short bursts, which in turn relate a
signal that is picked up by the MRI scanner. A computer processes this signal
and generates a 3D image of the segment of the body being examined.
2. Harmful Radiation
CT scan has 100to 1000 chest the X-Ray time higher Doses.
MRI use a strong magnetic field and no X-Ray, and MRI has no harmful
radiation.
3. Type of Tissues
Scanned
|
CT scan
|
MRI Scan
|
|
Tomors
|
Tendons- Ligaments
|
|
Lungs
|
Spinal injuries
|
|
Brain
|
Bones and Joints
|
|
Blood vessels
|
Breasts
|
|
Bones
|
Blood Vessel
|
|
|
Heart
|
|
|
Liver
|
|
|
Kinney
|
|
|
Spleen
|
4. Noise
CT scan is the machine does not produce unbearable noise.
MRI Scan is can be very noisy while scanning.
5. Time
CT scans typically take diagnostic
images more quickly than MRI scans. For example, a CT scan can often be
completed in less than 5 minutes while MRIs take an average of 30 minutes.
6. Purpose
CT scans and MRIs are also used for
different purposes, although either can be used in some instances. CT scans are
extremely helpful in diagnosing serious injuries to the head, chest, abdomen,
spine and pelvis, especially fractures. CT scans are also used to pinpoint the
size and location of Tumors.
MRIs, on the other
hand, often do a better job of diagnosing issues in your soft tissues, joints,
tendons and ligaments. Doctors frequently order MRIs to scan the brain, spine,
neck, breast, abdomen and muscles. MRI is a particularly good tool for
evaluating the spine and spinal ligaments,
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