The Differences Between CT & MRI Scans

MRI Scans (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses to produce comprehensive pictures of the internal body and organ structures. MRI provides details about skeletal systems, the brain, soft tissue, and the reproductive systems. MRI scans are noninvasive, but they are noisy and take more time than a CT scan. You will be asked to lie still while the MRI is taking place. MRI’s are most commonly used for images of:

• joints
• blood vessels
• brain
• heart
• breast
• ankles
• wrists

A CT scans ( computerized tomography)  is a combination of a series of X-ray images taken at various angles; the CT uses a computer to create images from these X-rays. CT scans utilize X-Rays to produce an image of the inside of the body. A CT scan uses radiation like X-rays, where an MRI does not. CT scans are fast, painless, quiet and noninvasive. CT scans are most commonly used for images of:

• cancer monitoring
• bone fractures
• tumors
• looking for internal bleeding

CT scans are used more often than MRIs and are typically less expensive. MRIs are thought to be superior regarding the image’s detail over those of a CT scan. Both CT scans and MRI scans are relatively safe. However, if you have a defibrillator, pacemaker, or an aneurysm clip, MRI is not recommended. Any metal devices may interact with the magnetic field and risk harm during an MRI.