When the x-ray machine appeared , it was a breakthrough in medicine. This made it possible to see the internal disturbances in the human body, to find out what state its organs are in. But even such a great way has some drawbacks. For example, on an X-ray, you can take a picture of some organs, but at the same time, images of other organs may overlap them.
And in this case, only the experienced and knowledgeable doctor can decrypt the result. Therefore, due to these shortcomings, progress has gone further.
New methods
Nowadays, there are other ways to diagnose the internal organs of a person, such as CT or MRI. But from here then a host 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. We will also explain which diagnostics are more suitable for a particular case.
We understand the difference between CT and MRI
Now many doctors recommend that patients, for better diagnosis, conduct more thorough examinations using computed 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 computed tomography that is performed using the property of X-ray radiation to be absorbed in different ways by different tissue thicknesses. That is, CT is, in general, identical to X-ray, but the information obtained with its help is processed differently, and the radiation load is much higher.
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is performed using a magnetic field. Hydrogen atoms, due to its effect, change their place, and the tomograph captures 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 the nature of the waves. Magnetic resonance imaging has electromagnetic waves. When they affect various tissues of organs, this gives rise to various data that are read using the device apparatus. And then all the signals are processed and, like during CT examination, an image is given on the monitor. Thanks to him, the doctor has the opportunity to see even layered sections of 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 what pathology can be detected thanks to these methods, and in addition, with the help of which rays this is done.
Scan time difference
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 often. But X-ray radiation affects the organs for no more than 10 seconds. So, such a study is best done with those people who suffer from claustrophobia.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) usually lasts from ten minutes or more, depending on the area of study. In this case, it is necessary to maintain immobility. Therefore, MRI is more suitable for people who have no serious mental abnormalities. As for the children, when using magnetic resonance imaging, they are given anesthesia.
Based on the foregoing, we can understand the difference between MRI and CT. What is the best MRI or CT for you? Only a doctor can answer this question, based on the characteristics of your body.
When is MRI used?
Inexperienced people who suffer from various diseases, referring to the attending physician, ask a question about how CT differs from MRI. But since we have already found an answer to it, then we will talk about which diseases it is best to use MRI, and where - CT.
MRI gives the most complete information it gives when studying soft tissues. Therefore, it is prescribed in 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 study using ultrasound);
- with various diseases of the brain and spinal cord;
- when there is a suspicion that there are circulatory disorders in the area of the brain or spinal cord;
- when you need to examine the intervertebral discs or the condition of the tissues of the joint.
And when is computed tomography used? She is prescribed:
- to study bone tissue in 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, pelvis, as well as in the lungs;
- with atherosclerotic changes in the vascular system.
Contraindications
Based on what was described above, the doctor will be able to correctly select the type of diagnosis for each patient individually. But there are some contraindications that are worth considering.
These include the following:
- CT is not allowed during pregnancy.
- MRI is not prescribed:
- in the presence of any metal parts implanted into the body;
- with electronic devices in the tissues (for example, a pacemaker);
- suffering from claustrophobia;
- weighing more than 150 kg;
- patients with neurological disorders who are not able to stay in one position for a long time.
Little conclusion
The question of which of the two examinations is best to choose is asked by each person who has to undergo a diagnosis of internal organs. And in order not to harm his health and get as much useful information as possible, the patient must ask his doctor what the difference between CT and MRI is. And the specialist will help determine what is more suitable for the patient in each case.