CT and MRI Scans: How They Work and Which One Is Best for You

You may think that CT and MRI scans are pretty much the same thing and that belief isn't unreasonable considering how similar the machines look. In reality, the similarity between the two tests is entirely in the external look of the machine, not in how they work. There are many reasons why a doctor might choose one over the other. You can read more How they work out with their scanning by clicking ther link.

A CT, or computed tomography, scan uses radiation to create an image of your internal parts. The machine takes many x-ray "pictures" of the body from different angles. The machine can put these images together to get a better idea of the three dimensional structures in your body. A CT scan can be completed in minutes, giving the doctor a good view of your insides quickly.

An MRI does not use radiation at all, but relies instead on magnetic fields, hence the name magnetic resonance image. The machine uses magnets and radio frequencies to influence the atoms in the body to emit their own detectable reactions that the machine can record to produce an image. It can take 45 minutes to get a good image with this type of machine. Find out more information about MRI in Australia.

The procedure that's right for you depends on what conditions you have, what the image is being used to diagnose, and other external factors. Where the problem is in your body can affect this decision, as can what the doctor is looking for. Your doctor will know which option will give him or her the best image from which to diagnose your condition.

Doctors weigh other factors, as well, when making this decision. For example, anyone with large metal pins or screws in their body will likely not be given an MRI as the magnetic fields involved can adversely affect someone with metal implants. If you're allergic to the contrasting agent used in a CT or MRI the doctor might order the other test.

Sometimes, it's the length of the test that helps the doctor make the decision on which to order. For example, if the patient cannot stay in a prone position for almost an hour without moving, such as those with Parkinson's Disease, then a CT scan may be best. If the doctor needs to see an image right away, a CT scan may also be preferable. Take a look at the information about radiology at http://www.xray.com.au/service/musculoskeletal-ultrasound/.

Whether or not radiation is safe for you will also influence your doctor's decision. A CT scan relies on radiation in a concentrated dose to create an image. While the total radiation in a single CT scan isn't any more than you'd get on a long plane flight, it does still come with a small increase in risk. If you are exposed to a lot of radiation in other contexts, or might be in the future, the risk may be considered too high. If you're at higher radiation risk for other reasons, an MRI might be safer for you.