MRI And CT Scans There are several types of health checks carried out so far. In particular, the examination is carried out in the hospital. Two of them are MRI examinations and CT scans. These two types of medical examinations are generally considered the same. This is perhaps quite reasonable. The reason is, the method used and the equipment used are almost the same model.
between MRI and CT scans, it turns out there are quite a lot of differences. What are the differences between these two types of examinations?
A CT scan is an examination by taking a series of pictures using X-rays. Meanwhile, MRI uses a strong magnetic field to take pictures of the inside of the body. A CT scan is usually the first choice for imaging. While MRI is useful for certain diseases that cannot be detected by CT scans.
The biggest difference is that an MRI uses radio waves, whereas a CT scan uses X-rays. CT scan and MRI are the options used according to the patient’s health condition. Usually CT scans are more widely used than MRI and CT scans are usually cheaper. Even so, MRI is considered superior in terms of image detail.
Following are the clear differences between the two:
Risk Type
Both CT and MRI scans pose some risks when used. The risk is based on the type of imaging and how the imaging is done.
The risks of a CT scan include:
1. May harm an unborn baby.
2. Very small dose of radiation.
3. Potential reactions to the use of dyes in examinations.
The risks of MRI include:
1. Possible reaction to metal due to magnetism.
2. The loud sound of the machine causes hearing problems.
3. Increased body temperature during an MRI examination.
4. Possibility of experiencing claustrophobia (phobia of narrow spaces).
5. The risk if you have artificial joint implants, eye implants, IUD (intrauterine device), pacemaker.
Benefit
Both MRI and CT scans can see internal body structures. However, a CT scan is faster and can provide an overview of tissues, organs, and skeletal structures. MRI is also more adept at capturing images, helping doctors determine whether abnormal tissue is present in the body. In short, MRI provides more detailed images.
Symptom
Most likely, the doctor will recommend an MRI or CT scan based on symptoms. If the doctor needs more detailed views of soft tissues, ligaments, or organs, they will usually suggest an MRI.
Some of the following conditions requiring such cases include:
Hernia disc.
Torn ligaments.
Software network problem.
If you need an overview of an area such as internal organs or due to a fracture or head trauma, a CT scan will usually be recommended.
Cancer risk
CT scans use ionizing radiation, so they can damage DNA and slightly increase the risk of developing cancer. Well, while the MRI does not use ionizing radiation, so there is no risk of increasing cancer. It’s just that, MRI takes longer to carry out the examination. The MRI requires the person to lie still in a closed room for about 20 to 40 minutes.