What is the difference between CT and MRI? Distinctive Features of Tomography

When the X-ray machine appeared , it became a breakthrough in medicine. This made it possible to see internal disturbances in the human body, to find out the state of its organs. But even such a great way has some disadvantages. For example, on an x-ray, you can take a snapshot of some organs, but at the same time images of other organs can be superimposed on them.

And then, in this case, an experienced and knowledgeable doctor will be able to decipher the result. Therefore, due to these shortcomings, progress went further.

New methods

Today, there are other ways to diagnose the internal organs of a person, such as CT or MRI. But then a lot of questions arise. For example, what diagnostics to choose, what is the difference between CT and MRI? Further in the article we will describe in detail their differences. Also we will explain which diagnostics are more suitable for this or that case.

Understand the difference between CT and MRI

Now many doctors recommend that patients for better diagnosis conduct more thorough examinations, using computer or magnetic resonance imaging. What kind of research is this? What is the difference between CT and MRI? Let's take a closer look:

• CT is a computer tomography, which is carried out using the property of X-rays to be absorbed in different ways by different thicknesses of tissues. That is, CT, in general, is identical to the X-ray, but the information obtained with it is treated quite differently, and the radiation load is much higher.

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is performed using a magnetic field. Atoms of hydrogen, due to its effects, change their place, and the tomograph fixes this effect and processes it into a three-dimensional image.

As you can see, the question - what is the difference between CT and MRI, what is the difference between these two diagnostic devices - immediately gets an answer. The main difference is in the nature of the waves. Magnetic resonance imaging - electromagnetic waves. When they are influenced by different tissues of the organs, thanks to this, different data are obtained, which are read by means of the apparatus of the apparatus. And then all the signals are processed and, like in the CT scan, an image is given to the monitor. Thanks to him, the doctor has the opportunity to see even layered sections of the organs. In addition, the image can be rotated and, if necessary, enlarge the desired area.

What is the difference between CT and MRI? Which tomography is better? Each diagnosis is good and informative. The main difference lies in the pathology that can be revealed through these methods, and in addition, with the help of which rays it is done.

The difference in scan time

Speaking about the difference between CT and MRI, it is worth noting that computed tomography (CT) has a serious radiation effect, and therefore it can not be used frequently. But x-irradiation does not affect the organs for more than 10 seconds. So, this research is best conducted with those people who suffer from claustrophobia.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) usually lasts ten minutes or more, depending on the area of study. In this case, you need to stay still. Therefore, MRI is more suitable for people who do not have any serious abnormalities in the psyche. And as for children, when using magnetic resonance examination, they are given anesthesia.

Based on the foregoing, one can understand the difference between MRI and CT. What is the best MRI or CT scan for you? This question can be answered only by a doctor, based on the characteristics of your body.

When does an MRI apply?

Inexperienced people who suffer from various diseases, referring to the treating physician, ask a question about what distinguishes CT from MRI. But since we have already found an answer to it, we will further discuss what diseases are best to use MRI, and where - CT.

MRI gives the most complete information gives in the study of soft tissue. Therefore, it is appointed in the following cases:

• If a person develops in muscle tissue, fat cells, in the abdomen and pelvis (this is done to get the full picture after the examination with ultrasound);
• With various diseases of the brain and spinal cord;
• When there is a suspicion that there are circulatory disorders in the region of the brain or spinal cord;
• When it is necessary to examine the intervertebral discs or the condition of the joint tissues.

And when is computed tomography used? It is appointed:

• For the study of bone tissue in the region of the spine and joints;
• When bone tissue is affected by tumor formations;
• When the bones of the skeleton were injured;
• With pathologies in the organs of the abdominal cavity, small pelvis, and also in the lungs;
• Atherosclerotic changes in the vascular system.

Contraindications

Based on what was described above, the doctor can correctly choose the type of diagnosis for each patient individually. But there are some contraindications that are worth considering.

They include the following:

1. CT is not allowed during pregnancy.
2. MRI is not prescribed:

• In the presence of any metal parts implanted in the body;
• With electronic devices available in tissues (for example, a pacemaker);
• Suffering from claustrophobia;
• With a person weighing more than 150 kg;
• Patients with neurological disorders, who do not have the opportunity to stay long in one position.

A small conclusion

The question of which is the best of the two examinations to choose, is assigned to each person who has to undergo the diagnosis of internal organs. And in order not to harm your health and get as much useful information as possible, the patient must ask his doctor if there is a difference between CT and MRI. And the expert will help to determine what is more suitable for the patient in each case.