What Are the Differences Between MRI and CT Scans?

Medical imaging tests have become extremely common in recent decades, and in fact, an integral part of healthcare. Almost all of us undergo at least one imaging test in our lifetime, be it for the diagnosis of a major condition or a small fracture. Regardless, one might wonder about the differences between various such tests. The images generated as test results look quite similar, which might make them look even more similar to a regular individual. In case you’re wondering “Does a diagnostic center offering CT scan Near Me also carry out MRIs the same way?”, this article is for you. 

MRI vs. CT scans: What are they?

Let’s start with the basic definitions of the two tests in question. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging and uses magnets and radio waves to create images of the internal organs. The radio waves bounce off the fat cells and the water molecules in the body to help create the images. CT scan, on the other hand, stands for computerized axial tomography. It requires you to lie down inside a large X-ray machine, i.e., the CT scanner. 

MRI vs. CT scans: Uses

While both MRI and CT scan help create detailed images of internal organs, they aren’t equally good for diagnosing every condition. Doctors prescribe an MRI or CT scan Gurgaon depending on the organs to be scanned and the condition they expect to diagnose. The former is primarily used to diagnose issues affecting the following organs.

HeartBrainAnklesJointsWristsBreastsBlood vessels

MRIs are particularly good at imaging specific bones, organs, and joints. CT scans, on the other hand, can cover larger areas and are suitable for the diagnosis of the following. 

Cancer Bone fracturesTumorsInternal bleeding

Although both imaging methods are used for cancer diagnosis, CT scans are particularly helpful for this purpose. The full body images created by CT scans help track how far cancer has spread. Apart from diagnosing and tracking the spread of cancer, CT scans also show how it’s responding to treatment procedures.

Read Also: Are MRI and CT Scans Safe?

Advantages and disadvantages of MRI

Like any medical imaging test, MRIs have their perks and drawbacks too. This imaging technology helps generate very accurate images down to a level of detail that CT scans can’t achieve. Besides, it can effectively detect diseases in certain organs that CT scans fail to detect. Certain types of cancer are impossible or very hard to detect on CT scan results, and require MRIs instead. However, MRIs require you to lie still within an enclosed space for 20 to 40 minutes. This can be difficult for individuals suffering from claustrophobia. 

Advantages and disadvantages of CT scans

The biggest advantage of a CT scan is its cost. It’s cheaper than an MRI scan, which also makes it more popular. CT scans only take 10 to 20 minutes – about half the time needed for MRI scans. However, CT scans also expose you to a small amount of radiation. Although it’s very rare, there’s a chance that it may alter your DNA or make you more vulnerable to cancer. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, neither of the tests is better than the other. Your doctor will prescribe you the right one depending on the diagnostic requirements. If you are unsure about “Where can I go for a CT scan Near Me?”, just check with the reputed hospitals in Gurgaon.