What is the difference between CT Scan and MRI Scan?

CT Scan and MRI Scan are two important technologies used by doctors to diagnose any medical condition in patients. Although both can be used to diagnose and see problems affecting the internal organs of the body, the technology used by the two to achieve this is not the same. CT Scan or Computed Tomography scan makes use of an x-ray to scan the internal part of the body and gives the report of what has been detected via the computer.

MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, on the other hand, makes use of magnets and radio waves. With this, the image of the internal structure is created and helps the doctor to clearly diagnose a patient. Unlike CT Scan that gives 3D images of the internal organs of the body, the images produced MRI is more detailed. Also, MRI is a better choice for bone scans compared to CT scans. Since it is evident that MRI works better than a CT Scan, MRI scan is quite expensive compared to a CT Scan.

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, while the CAT scan stands for Computerized Axial Tomography. CT scans utilize x rays, which are radioactive to obtain images of the head, abdomen, chest, and skeletal system. CT scans are relatively painless, while MRI scans have a reputation for being uncomfortable. With an MRI, you are put into a tube with magnets underneath, and they move to take a picture.

This movement is why they make loud noises while the procedure is going on. MRI calls upon the magnetic field and radio waves to be able to generate these images. With a CT scan, numerous pictures are taken from different angles. These scans are useful to provide more detailed images than an MRI. Another advantage of the CT scan over the MRI is that the CT scan doesn’t take as long. That’s why it is pretty much painless. Both of these tests have been created to locate or diagnose a medical problem.