We have heard of CT Scan and MRI and many of us would have already gone through it as well. Not many know the basic difference between them. Let us now look at these two technologies and try to understand a little more than what we know.
CT Scan as well as MRI use capturing of images within our body. The biggest difference between them is that MRI uses Radio Waves and CT Scan uses X-rays. CT Scan stands for Computed Tomography Scan and MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
MRI
MRI is normally used to view objects inside our body and frequently used to diagnose issues with
- Joints
- Brain
- Wrists
- Ankles
- Breasts
- Heart
- Blood Vessels
With MRI, a constant Magnetic Field and Radio Frequencies bounce off of the Fat and Water Molecules in our body. These Radio Waves are transmitted to a receiver inside the machine. The received waves are then translated into an image of the body which is used to diagnose issues. MRI Machine generates noise and the patient undergoing MRI will be given earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise. The patient also needs to lie still while doing an MRI.
CT Scan
A Large X-Ray machine is used for CT Scan which is basically uses X-Ray Imaging. The CT Scan is typically used for detecting
- Bone Fracture
- Tumors
- Cancer Monitoring
- Detecting Internal Bleeding
CT Scans are widely used and they are comparatively less expensive than MRI. The Detail of the Image generated is more in MRI than CT Scan. While both are of relatively low risk processes, they do have some risks and benefits.
Risks and Benefits
The risk with CT Scan include the following.
- Harmful to unborn babies
- Very small dose of Radiation
- Potential reaction to the use of Dyes
The risks with MRI include:
- Possible reaction to metals due to magnets
- Loud noise from the machine causing hearing issues
- Increase in body temperature while doing long MRIs
- Claustrophobia – a situational phobia triggered by an irrational and intense fear of tight or crowded spaces
Benefits of MRI and CT Scan is that both can view internal body structure. CT Scan is faster and provides picture of Tissues, Organs and Skeletal Structure. MRI on the other hand is highly adept in capturing images and helps doctors determine if there are abnormal tissues within the body. The doctor recommends based on your symptoms, whether to go for a MRI or CT Scan method. MRI is more effective in cases of Herniated Discs, Torn Ligaments, Soft Tissue issues. In case a general image is required of an area like Internal Organs due to a fracture or head trauma, a CT Scan is normally recommended.
Source of Information: Healthline
Important:
You must consult with a doctor prior to going for a MRI if you have implants like Artificial Joints, Eye Implants, Intrauterine Devices (IUD), Pacemaker etc.
Read more about CT Scan and MRI at:
Disclaimer:
Information provided here is only for a general awareness. Do CT Scan or MRI only when it is prescribed by your doctor.
