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MRI and CT scans have several differences, though your doctor uses both for imaging. Find out why your doctor may recommend one over the other and how they differ. What sets these scans apart is critical in choosing the right one for diagnosis. Discover the differences and how you can prepare yourself for your next scan, whether you need an MRI or a CT.<\/span><\/p>\n Jump to Sections:<\/strong><\/p>\n MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. This imager uses radio waves and strong magnets to create a view of your bones, tissues and organs. MRI scans are ideal for getting a detailed, in-depth look at your tissues or organs. Doctors use MRIs to diagnose several conditions including:<\/p>\n Before the scan, you may need a contrast agent. Sometimes, you will have\u00a0one scan without the contrast dye<\/a>\u00a0followed by an MRI with the dye. Depending on what parts you are having scanned, you may drink the solution or have it injected into a vein. After removing all clothing and jewelry, you’ll dress in medical scrubs (top and pants) or a hospital gown. Next, you’ll lie on the scanner table, which slides into the device. You will have earplugs or headphones to wear. The MRI machine makes a lot of noise while running.<\/p>\n During the scanning process, you may be required to hold your breath for specific scans. Even the slight movement of breathing can affect the results. MRIs are\u00a0painless and last up to an hour<\/a>, though some may take slightly more time.<\/p>\n Schedule an MRI or CT Scan at Health Images<\/a><\/p>\n CT stands for computed tomography. Sometimes, these are referred to as CAT scans, which stands for computerized axial tomography. CT scans use x-rays to create multiple cross-sections of your body. These scans are extremely popular, with\u00a070 million performed annually in the United States<\/a>.<\/p>\n Most often, CT scans are used to look for problems in your bones, tissues, brain or other organs. Doctors typically use CT scans to identify the following conditions:<\/p>\n For the computed tomography scan, if your doctor requested a contrast, you will have the fluid injected into your system. If you need a scan of your digestive tract, you might be asked to drink contrast. After putting on medical scrubs (top and pants) or a hospital gown, you will lie down on a table, very similar to the one used for an MRI. The table slides into the scanning device, which is much quieter and faster than an MRI. You should not feel any pain during the exam. Nothing touches your body during the scan. Most scans finish in 10 minutes.<\/p>\n There are several differences between CT scans and MRIs. Usually, your doctor will decide on the best scanning tool for your situation. Here are several ways the two stand apart.<\/p>\n Magnetic resonance imaging produces clearer images compared to a CT scan. In instances when doctors need a view of soft tissues, an MRI is a better option than x-rays or CTs. MRIs can create better pictures of organs and soft tissues, such as torn ligaments and herniated discs, compared to CT images.<\/p>\n MRIs cost almost twice the cost of CT exams. When price is an issue, talk to your doctor to see if you can have an alternative, cheaper imaging done. Also, phone or email your insurance company to verify that it covers the procedure. Don’t forget to ask how much your insurance will pay for the MRI scan.<\/p>\n An MRI requires more time, and depending on your level of noise tolerance, could be too loud. Some patients experience anxiety or claustrophobia in an MRI due to the closed tube design and noisy operation.<\/p>\n Because MRIs rely on precision for creating sharp results, any movement can produce blurred results. You must carefully control your breathing as directed during the procedure. If you need images of a part of the body not in your thoracic region, you may be freer with your breath, but you will need to remain completely still for the scan.<\/p>\n Another limitation of MRIs appears when using these devices to diagnose cancer. Sometimes,\u00a0cancer tissue and excessive fluids look the same in an MRI. You may require other tests such as biopsies to confirm the presence of cancerous tissue in your body before you can start treatment.<\/p>\n Compared to MRI scans, there are several advantages of CT scans. For larger individuals who may not fit comfortably inside traditional MRI devices, CT scans may be a better choice due to their more open design. Because this procedure produces results so much faster than an MRI, it is doctors’ preferred choice for a scanner for making a diagnosis in an emergency. When time is of the essence in determining the cause of stroke<\/a>\u00a0to start treatment, a CT scan cannot be matched. Doctors can identify if the stroke occurred from hemorrhaging or by a blocked artery.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n While CT has advantages, it is not perfect. The amount of radiation you experience from a computed tomography scan can be up to 1,000 times more than you get from an x-ray. Even at these levels, the radiation is a small dose, but if you require multiple scans over your lifetime, it can add up. Despite costing less, CT images don’t capture as many details as MRIs, and the doctor may miss some crucial pieces of information.<\/p>\n While CT machines can accommodate larger patients, there is still a limit. Traditional scanners can allow for patients up to 450 pounds, depending on the model. The patient’s back to front measurement across the widest point should also measure less than 28 inches.<\/p>\n The right scan for you will depend on what your doctor is looking for. Your symptoms and health history will guide your physician to make the best decision when choosing a diagnostic scan. The risk factors you have that may prevent you from having a CT scan or an MRI will also become vital criteria when your doctor selects the right scan for you.<\/p>\n MRI scans pose low levels of risk, but they are not for everyone. The intense magnetic field generated during the MRI could cause problems for those with metallic implants in their body. Have a conversation with your primary care provider about whether you should have an MRI if you have any of the following:<\/p>\n These devices often contain iron-based metal and may be pulled from the body by the magnetics in the MRI. Pacemakers can malfunction. Aneurysm clips may dislodge, leading to fatal bleeding. Some dark tattoo ink is metallic, which could interact with the MRI’s magnet. If you have any implants constructed from titanium, you can have an MRI.<\/p>\n Ask your doctor which scan is right for you if you have heart or kidney problems and need contrast dye. The dye used, a gadolinium-based product, is well-tolerated by those allergic to iodine and shellfish.<\/p>\n Those with severe claustrophobia can still get an MRI. Ask if an open MRI is a good option for you or see if you can use a sedative to remain still during the scan. Being claustrophobic is not a reason to pass on a needed MRI.<\/p>\n Pregnant women have been able to have MRIs since the 1980s with no reports of harm to mothers or unborn children since then. Doctors, though, don’t know about how the magnets affect fetuses under four months of development. If you are pregnant, especially if you need a contrast agent for the scan, ask your doctor if the procedure can be put off until after the baby arrives. Unless an absolute necessity requires you to get an MRI with contrast while pregnant, try to avoid it.<\/p>\n Not everyone should have a CT scan. While the scans are relatively benign, they do expose you to radiation. The chances of developing cancer from one CT scan are around one in 2,000, but radiation exposure builds over your life. Because too much exposure to radiation in childhood could lead to cancer as an adult, doctors tend to not recommend CT scans for children or those who require multiple scans.<\/p>\n You should discuss with your doctor if you’re allergic to iodine contrast dyes, which are often used for CT scans. If you are, you may be a better candidate for an MRI. Iodine can cause severe allergic reactions in those with sensitivities to this substance.<\/p>\n Pregnant women who need abdominal imaging may risk exposing their unborn child to radiation during a CT scan. If you are pregnant, voice your concerns about the risks of radiation from a CT scan with your physician. Inquire as to whether another imaging option will suffice.<\/p>\n The facility you select for your MRI or CT scan makes a difference in your experience. Visit a diagnostic imaging center that works with you to give you the best experience possible. If your doctor requested an MRI, we have\u00a0open MRI scanners, open bore and short bore machines<\/a>\u00a0to make the scan more comfortable and less confining. Our centers also have top-notch MRI equipment that is the best technology available for this type of scanning.<\/p>\n Like our MRI scanners, we have\u00a0top-of-the-line CT scanners<\/a>\u00a0to create 3D images of your body. We make the most of your time, and most scans take under an hour to complete. We’ll schedule the scan at a time that is convenient for you, and you don’t have to worry about calling your insurance company to check for coverage. Our offices coordinate with your insurance company to see how much your plan covers the scan. When your doctor needs quick results from your scan, rely on our imaging centers, which have the\u00a0fastest time for results to be returned in the industry<\/a>. Thanks to the speed and clarity of our imaging equipment, we help your doctor to quickly and accurately diagnose your condition.<\/p>\n We serve several major metropolitan regions,\u00a0including Denver, Boulder, Castle Rock and Longmont<\/a>. You will likely find a location near you. Contact your nearest Health Images imaging center to make an appointment for your MRI or CT scan. We’ll give your time and health our highest respect, as we do for all our patients. See us for any imaging you need, from MRIs and CT scans to mammograms.<\/p>\n Sources:<\/strong><\/b><\/p>\n\n
What Is an MRI?<\/h2>\n
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What Happens During an MRI?<\/h3>\n
What Is a CT Scan?<\/h2>\n
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What Happens During a CT Scan?<\/strong><\/b><\/h3>\n
What’s the Difference Between an MRI and CT Scan?<\/h2>\n
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<\/p>\nAdvantages of MRIs<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nDisadvantages of MRIs<\/h3>\n
Advantages of CT Scans<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nDisadvantages of CT Scans<\/h3>\n
Which One Is Right for You – MRI vs. CT Scan<\/h2>\n
Who Should Not Have an MRI?<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nWho Should Not Have a CT Scan?<\/h3>\n
Visit Our Diagnostic Imaging Centers for an MRI or CT Scan<\/h2>\n
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