How MRI differs from CT: which study is more accurate, informative and safer - which is better? What does a CT of the brain show and how does it differ from an MRI The difference between an MRI and a CT of the joints

The human body is designed in such a way that it constantly requires monitoring of the work of the most important functions, otherwise diseases may appear that disrupt the life and work capacity of a person. Feeling the first signs of an illness, any person who monitors his health consults a doctor. The specialist receives patients, collects anamnesis, analyzes the patient's condition, provides first aid, conducts a diagnostic examination and prescribes appropriate treatment.

Health is the beginning of everything

A large role in the process of communication between the patient and the doctor is occupied by diagnostic procedures, since they are the main indicator for making a diagnosis. Medicine has a large number of diagnostic techniques that help to identify the occurrence of diseases and organ damage. The most common of these are computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). What is the difference between them? This question worries most patients who are assigned this or another research method. A person can be examined in relation to different body systems:

• chest;
• bronchial system and lungs;
• head and brain;
• thyroid gland;
• hearts;
• mammary glands.

The concept of MRI and CT

Answering the question: what is MRI and CT (kate), it should be noted that both of these methods are aimed at studying the internal organs of a person, they have one goal - to obtain information about the state of health for diagnosis and treatment.

Magnetic resonance imaging is the process of examining an organ that shows signs of a disease by influencing the body with the help of a magnetic field with specialized equipment. It is an oval-shaped capsule, from which a place is put forward where a person is placed. His arms, legs and head are fixed with straps to ensure the immobility of the position. After that, it is placed in a capsule, where the process of influence of the magnetic field on the body takes place. Frequencies provoke a response, as a result of which information enters the computer in a three-dimensional image, where it is automatically decoded.

X-ray computed tomography (RCT) has a different principle of operation. A person lies down on a couch, an X-ray beam affects his body. Under his influence, the specialist manages to take pictures of the organs that are to be studied. They are formed from different points, different distances and at different angles. All pictures are in 3D.

Important! When using this method, the doctor gets the opportunity to examine the image of the organ in section, and with certain equipment settings, the image in this form can reach a thickness of up to 1 millimeter. This indicator allows you to more accurately consider the features of the structure and damage to the organ.

CT and MRI are aimed at diagnosing diseases, and have a relatively similar medical result - obtaining information about the state of internal organs, the stage of development of the disease and the ability to make a correct diagnosis.

Differences in research methods

Despite the fact that both methods have a common goal, which is based on the process of treating diseases, they have significant differences. In order to understand the effect of examinations, it is necessary to understand the meaning of their functions, which is the specificity and features of the manipulations that affect the human body.

The difference between MRI and CT can be considered by comparing these diagnostic methods:

• the main distinguishing feature of the 2 ways of examining the body is the essence of physical phenomena. MRI differs in that the information content is based on obtaining information about the chemical state of tissues and organs. What is the difference between CT - the meaning of its conduct is the doctor's awareness of the physical state of the body's systems;
• evaluation of tissue condition. If a patient is affected by spiral computed tomography (SCT), then the doctor can tell not only about the type of tissues, but also about their X-ray density. Under the influence of magnetic resonance imaging, a specialist can study tissues and organs only visually, and that is considered less informative;
• MRI specializes in the recognition of soft tissues, the state of the skeletal system can not be fully studied, since there is no calcium resonance. CT provides more complete information about the condition of the bones;
• CT and MRI affect the body in different ways - resonance imaging using a magnetic field, and computed tomography using x-rays.

When discussing how MRI differs from CT, it is necessary to understand that it is not necessary to talk about the advantage of one or another diagnostic. Each of them is effective and informative, depending on the specific characteristics of the body and indications for examination procedures. Each of them has its own cases for appointment and conduct, as a result of which the disease is detected, the stage it is in is taken into account, and what treatment to prescribe in this particular case is summarized.

Important! Computed tomography has its own distinctive specific features. It is subdivided into carrying out the procedure in the usual mode, and also involves a spiral method of exposure to equipment for diagnostic purposes. It is suitable as a good option for those patients who need an accelerated diagnosis of the state of internal organs.

MRI is divided into types depending on the area of ​​dysfunction of the body:

• lungs;
• chest;
• vessels;
• brain;
• thyroid gland.

How does an MRI of one differ from an MRI of another organ? Their location, the degree of functional impairment.

Indications for CT and MRI

When a patient contacts a specialist in a medical institution, he is usually not given the right to choose MRI or CT as a diagnostic. In this case, there is no question: which is better? Safer? After all, each diagnostic measure is designed to identify a certain kind of disease that has its own specific features. They can differ only in the method of influence, equipment, the way of processing information when transformed into a computer.

The attending physician, after interviewing the patient, independently prescribes MRI and CT, which is based on his experience, indications for diagnosis, knowledge, skills and abilities acquired in the course of work.

Diagnostics using magnetic resonance imaging will be more informative, high-quality, detailed with the following indications:

• in case of malignant or benign neoplasms in the abdominal cavity, pelvic organs, muscle mass (most often used in addition to ultrasound as a clarification of data);

• violations of structures, blood circulation and tissues of the spinal cord and brain;
• for pain and inflammation in the spine (intervertebral discs, ligaments and joints);
• in violation of the functions of the joints;
• in case of stroke, multiple sclerosis.

Detection of diseases through computed tomography is most significant in the following cases:

• in traumatic situations associated with impaired brain activity, hematomas of tissues and bones of the skull;
• malignant and benign brain tumors, disorders of the circulatory process;
• with damage to the bones located at the base of the skull, sinuses and bones in the temple area;
• in case of violation of the integrity of the bones that form the skull;
• in violation of the blood circulation, expressed in atherosclerotic vascular lesions;
• with the development of otitis media and sinusitis;
• in violation of the integrity of the bones of the spine;

• in case of neoplasms in the lungs, the development of pneumonia (used to clarify the diagnosis after an x-ray);
• used to diagnose the preclinical stage of lung cancer to assess the nature of organ changes;
• can be used to study the condition of a patient whose body contains metal implants (since the procedure is excluded for magnetic resonance imaging in the presence of metal objects and particles in the body);
• in violation of the functionality of the abdominal cavity (to supplement the clinical picture after basic studies - ultrasound, x-rays).

Contraindications for CT and MRI

Each of these studies has its own contraindications, which exclude the possibility of conducting a particular diagnostic process.

MRI is not performed in the following cases:

• to assess the condition of people who have metal elements that are part of the components of internal organs;
• for pregnant women, diagnosis is recommended only during the first trimester of pregnancy;
• people suffering from heart failure;
• there is no technological impossibility to study patients whose weight category is not limited to 120 kilograms;
• people suffering from diseases in the field of psychiatry usually fail to undergo diagnostics with such equipment, because immobility is considered the main condition for its high-quality implementation.

CT is not performed in the following cases:

• pregnancy;
• when breastfeeding;
• with a patient weighing more than 150 kilograms;
• inadequate behavior of people suffering from deviations in the psycho-emotional sphere.

Speaking about the differences between magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, one cannot assert that any of them is not informative, groundless and of poor quality. Both methods are designed to detect serious diseases and are aimed at a rapid assessment of the state of body systems. They are fully informative in relation to the indications for which a doctor prescribes this or that procedure, which happens on an individual basis.

Video

MRI, CT are performed both to study tissues and bone integrity, and organs: respiration (lungs), digestive system, circulatory system, brain dysfunctions, endocrine system. At the first signs of the disease, a person needs to see a doctor as soon as possible for a diagnosis.

People who are far from the topic of medical research do not always understand the difference between CT and MRI, often considering these two concepts to be the same. In particular, if it is necessary to carry out diagnostic procedures, for example, of the brain or spine, they do not see the difference between magnetic resonance or computed tomography. This is mistake. The only thing they have in common is the scanning method - layer by layer. The list of differences is not so sparse. The principles of operation of both types of research are discussed below, what is the difference between CT and MRI, as well as the impact of these differences on the diagnosis of various organs.

What are MRI and CT

If we talk about the appearance of the devices, they are almost the same. Both are a narrow bed on which the patient lies, and a kind of large tunnel, in the body of which there are scanners. But the principle of action, or rather, the physical phenomena underlying the research of certain organs, are completely different.

The principle of operation of CT

The difference between CT and MRI of the spine is that magnetic resonance imaging is more in demand in the process of examining muscle and cartilage tissues, parts of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, as well as the gastrointestinal tract. A CT scanner is good for examining bone tissue, salt deposits, damage to the nervous system and various kinds of bleeding. This is the answer to the question of what is the difference between CT and MRI of the spine.

The results of CT studies are no less informative than the results of MRI. To improve the clarity of the obtained images, it is advisable to use contrast during both magnetic resonance and X-ray computer studies. Contrast is a substance that is well displayed on CT scans, MRI of the spine. The color difference helps to clearly establish the boundaries of certain organs, neoplasms, vessels of the circulatory system, manifestations of various diseases, such as metastases.

brain research

As in the situation with the spine, an MRI or CT scan of the head is prescribed to confirm or refute the suspicion of one or another abnormality in the functioning of various parts of the brain. Also, the reasons for research may be symptoms of the appearance of malignant tumors, insufficient blood supply, damage to the endocrine organs, or problems with the organs of hearing and vision of an unexplained nature.

Indications for an MRI or CT of the brain

Which study to appoint, will be decided by the attending physician, based on what exactly he needs. Symptoms that may require an MRI or CT scan of the brain include:

periodic dizziness;

frequent pain in the head and neck;

signs of malignant neoplasms;

signs of a pre-stroke state or the stroke itself;

pituitary insufficiency;

suffered serious head injuries;

abnormal development of the jaw.

The difference between CT and MRI of the brain is as follows: if the objects of study are soft tissues or organs of the circulatory system, MRI will be preferable, but in the case when bone tissue becomes the objects of diagnosis, CT. This is, by and large, the answer to the question of what is the difference between CT and MRI. But to say that one is better than the other makes no sense. In terms of information quality, one is not inferior to the other. As already mentioned, the time for MRI diagnostics is higher, but in the case of using contrast for CT, the time is equalized.

Speaking about the information content of MRI or CT of the head and brain, it should be noted that there is no big difference. Both types of diagnostic equipment at the output provide images in black and white and may contain modules for building a three-dimensional model of the organ under study. Both devices allow you to highlight the desired areas at any level of the body, save information for further study of the dynamics.

Choice of procedure and contraindications

Contraindications may also influence the choice of one or another procedure. People with metal implants in the body are not allowed to undergo MRI - such devices can either fail or damage the patient under the influence of a powerful magnetic field. Contraindications for CT: pregnancy, insulin-dependent diabetes, and a recent procedure using x-rays.

Which procedure to send the patient to - magnetic resonance and X-ray computed tomography - should be decided by the attending physician. The patient has no right to demand an independent choice, unless, of course, there are contraindications. Many, of course, take into account the difference in the cost of these diagnostic procedures, but it is important to remember one thing here: health is more important. Especially with the rapid development of technology in recent years, everything is changing. This is reflected in the cost of MRI and CT scans of the brain. The difference is decreasing.

Outcome

Summing up, we can say the following: of course, there is a difference between magnetic resonance and X-ray computed tomography, but it is not of a qualitative nature. The difference lies precisely in the purpose of the diagnostic study. If you need diagnostics of soft and cartilaginous tissues, vessels of the circulatory system, neoplasms and the like, MRI is what you need. The skeletal system, as well as solid deposits on the walls of organs and blood vessels, are best examined using CT. This is the main and only rule, thanks to which you can clearly understand what is the difference between CT and MRI.

In order to determine the presence and localization of the pathological process that affects the internal organs, doctors prescribe CT or MRI. Naturally, the patient has a question - what is the difference between MRI and computed tomography, why is it recommended for some patients to undergo one examination, and for the rest another, which one is better and which one is worse? Let's take everything in order.

How is CT different from MRI and which is better?

The fundamental difference between these two research methods lies in the mechanism of their implementation - if magnetic resonance imaging is carried out using the influence of a strong magnetic field, then X-ray radiation is the basis for the implementation of CT.

A few words about the advantages and disadvantages of CT and MRI

It is unequivocal to say that one of these studies cannot be better - this is due to the fact that in different situations each of these surveys has a certain advantage. For example, due to the properties of X-rays, spiral computed tomography is the "gold standard" for diagnosing all fractures, including those with displacement. This study will help to detect the smallest cracks that will not be visible even at the autopsy! Using magnetic resonance therapy, it is practically impossible to ensure such accuracy of the study, since the magnetic field will not be able to identify disorders localized in the deep parts of the bone tissue.

In addition, spiral computed tomography can very well detect lung pathologies, in particular, calcifications. So, patients with occupational diseases such as asbestosis, people suffering from pulmonary tuberculosis, or those patients who are suspected of having a volumetric formation in the lung tissue are definitely recommended to undergo SCT. In such situations, it is pointless to use MRI, since its results will not be clinically important.

But in the event that it comes to the definition and differential diagnosis of joint diseases (violation of the congruence of the articular surfaces, destruction of the menisci, accumulation of synovial fluid), then you need to go for an MRI - in this situation, just magnetic resonance imaging will show much more effective results . Please also note that MRI services in Moscow will cost you relatively inexpensively - the cost of this study will not exceed regional rates. By the way, this study will also be shown in case of soft tissue injuries, encysted processes, as well as suspicion of a volumetric neoplasm of unclear origin - it would definitely be better to do an MRI. This will allow you to get a layered picture of the pathological process.

Study of brain pathology

Now regarding the difference between CT and MRI of the brain. In principle, spiral computed tomography gives a more informative picture of the state of the brain of a sick person, and in addition, this technique better allows you to determine the anatomical integrity of the bone structures that make up the skull.

MRI is also used when it is necessary to make a differential diagnosis of various focal processes localized in the brain, and the results of this study are of great clinical importance.

Benefits and undesirable effects on the body - how to choose the optimal combination?

However, one should not forget that MRI differs from CT in a much greater load in terms of radiation (naturally, spiral computed tomography is much more difficult for a person to tolerate). Thus, it can be argued that in complex clinical situations (for example, the diagnosis of an extensive cerebral infarction by hemorrhagic type), it is justified to conduct computer diagnostics of the brain - it is necessary to accurately, up to 1 mm, determine the location of the pathological focus. But for those patients who do not need differential diagnosis (for example, it is necessary to track the dynamics of a certain process and assess how effective the treatment is), magnetic resonance imaging is quite enough. Especially if we take into account the fact that the survey will have to be repeated several times with a short break, as in the case of dynamic observation.

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Pricing for 21st century research

What is most interesting, contrary to the stereotypes of many patients, now the prices for MRI in Moscow have been reduced to the maximum. To date, the cost of magnetic resonance imaging with helical CT does not differ much, and the difference in price, if any, is due to the difference in the volume of studies performed (it is clear that it will be easier to examine regional lymph nodes than several sections of the spinal cord) . Every day, modern and effective diagnostic procedures are becoming more accessible - the leading clinics in the capital are doing everything possible to provide their patients with a high level of service at an affordable price.

To understand how CT differs from MRI, it is necessary to find out what each examination is. First of all, these are two non-invasive (non-contact) methods for diagnosing the human body, helping to see the internal organs in layers in one picture and identify organ transformations even at the early stages of disease development. The difference between CT and MRI is in the very nature of these research methods.

Computed tomography is a research method based on obtaining an X-ray image in different planes. Modern computed tomographs are multispiral, which is why high-resolution images are obtained in a small amount of time. This method of analysis shows the physical state of matter. The test itself takes a few minutes.

Magnetic resonance imaging is an analysis method based on the interaction of radio particles and a magnetic field. What is the difference between MRI and CT: it gives an idea of ​​the chemical state of a substance. The duration of such an examination can take from half an hour to an hour and a half.

With CT, the doctor can see the density of tissues that change due to the development of certain diseases. With MRI, the diagnostician observes only a visual picture, but this gives more accurate results of the study of soft tissues, but the bones are practically invisible. Both computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging allow the use of a contrast agent.

Computed tomography is performed if the following indications are noted:

• injuries of the skeletal system (spine, bones, joints);
• atherosclerosis and aneurysms;
• lung diseases, as well as abdominal and pelvic organs;
• the condition of the teeth;
• analysis of the state of the thyroid and parathyroid glands;
• sinusitis, sinusitis and otitis media - any lesions of the pyramids of the temporal bones;
• research results of surgical intervention;
• the patient has metal implants (plates, devices).

Indications for MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging is performed if the following indications are noted:

• changes in the structure of the brain and spinal cord, circulatory disorders in them;
• neoplasms in the organs of the abdominal cavity, small pelvis, muscles and subcutaneous fat;
• examination of intervertebral discs and articular surfaces;
• analysis of the condition of patients with neurological diseases and stroke survivors;
• x-ray intolerance.

Conclusion: CT is most often prescribed for injuries: fractures, bleeding, as well as for analyzing the condition of the lungs, stomach and other internal organs. Compared to CT, an MRI examination is preferable for examining soft tissues, the nervous system, and identifying the state of tumors of various origins.

Contraindications for CT

As with any method used in medicine, computed tomography has its limitations. The main reason for contraindications is X-ray exposure. Because of it, CT scans are prohibited for pregnant and lactating women. In addition, CT is not recommended for patients with renal insufficiency and diabetes mellitus.

Metal implants: dentures, pacemakers, plates (except titanium), even tattoos with paints containing metals - all this is a contraindication for the use of MRI. Metal objects can make it difficult to see the full picture. For people with neurological disorders that make them unable to remain still, for young children and those suffering from claustrophobia, the use of sedatives is allowed. For pregnant women, MRI is not dangerous, but it is advisable to refrain from using it in the first trimester.

Conclusion: The choice of research method may depend on the presence of contraindications in the patient. CT and MRI allow the use of sedatives, but are not performed for people weighing more than 150 kg. MRI can be performed for pregnant and lactating women, this is unacceptable for CT.

Preparation and conduct of the procedure

Firstly, it is worth warning the doctor about taking any medications, diseases, allergic reactions, pregnancy, the presence of any implants. Secondly, if a CT scan is performed using a contrast agent, it is not recommended to eat a few hours before the procedure. Sedatives are used on an empty stomach.

For an MRI of the abdominal cavity and small pelvis, you need to prepare in advance: a few hours before the procedure, you can not eat and drink, before that it is better to refrain from foods that cause increased gas formation (bread, fruits, vegetables, etc.). The bladder must be full for pelvic exams.

During the MRI, the patient is asked to wear headphones so as not to be distracted by the sound of the operating tomograph. Also, the subject is given a special button for emergency communication with the doctor. This is necessary so that the patient can report if they become ill during the procedure, which can take 30–90 minutes.

It is better to come to the examination in comfortable clothes that do not hinder movement. Remove eyeglasses, jewelry, hearing aid, and remove any metal objects from pockets.

Frequency of procedures

CT scans should not be done frequently due to the dose of radiation the patient is receiving. MRI is harmless, it can be used to study the picture of the patient's condition an unlimited number of times.

brain research

The most difficult thing is to analyze the state of the brain. Knowing about the possibilities of CT and MRI and the difference between them, it is often suggested to combine these research methods in order to quickly clarify the course of the disease, obtain a diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment.

CT will show the results of the study of bone tissue, sinuses, eye orbits and blood vessels. And MRI, unlike CT of the brain, is desirable to use for headaches of an unclear nature, dizziness, suspected tumors, disorders of the pituitary gland, and traumatic brain injuries. And also MRI of the brain helps to see changes after a stroke.

Spine studies

To examine the condition of the spine, experts more often recommend MRI than CT. This is due to the ability to assess the state of paravertebral muscles, joints, vertebrae and intervertebral fluid in the sagittal plane. MRI helps to see the full picture of the disease, which allows you to choose the most effective treatment and rehabilitation.

CT is selected only in case of damage to the skeletal system of the spine.

Abdominal examinations

The effectiveness of both methods of examining the abdominal cavity is approximately the same, but there are some differences between CT and MRI. CT provides information about the formation of stones in the urinary tract and bile ducts, and is extremely effective in examining the gastrointestinal tract, as there are some types of tumors that are visible only with x-rays. When studying the abdominal cavity, MRI helps to detect tumors at an early stage and various inflammations.

Lung research

For examination of the lungs, MRI is of little value, which cannot be said about CT. Computed tomography helps to see all parts of the lung tissue and assess their condition. Tumors, tuberculosis, abscesses, emphysema, any inflammation and their condition and localization - all this is clearly visible in the picture. During the study, you can analyze the condition of the entire chest, notice changes in the lymphatic vessels and nodes, arteries, predict the course of the disease and decide on the treatment.

Joint research

Both CT and MRI are used to examine the joints. And if CT helps to determine pathological changes in the joint and changes in the bone under the cartilage, then MRI makes it possible to diagnose arthritis and aseptic neurosis early, make a diagnosis in case of tendon sprains, contusions of muscle and bone tissue. By the way, MRI of the joints is sometimes used even in newborns to eliminate congenital injuries and anomalies.

Soft Tissue Examination

For the study of soft tissues, it is recommended to choose MRI, it makes it possible to notice even the slightest signs of inflammation, abscesses, sprains, fibrosis, cicatricial atrophic changes, chronic hematomas. But the main advantage is that MRI allows you to assess the nature of the tumor even without the use of a biopsy. It is carried out after already to confirm the diagnosis. A doctor can determine whether a patient has a malignant or benign neoplasm and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

CT can be used to examine the soft tissues of the neck and larynx. If you need to inject contrast to examine the thyroid gland, then you need to know in advance about the state of the organ. This is important because the composition of the contrast fluid includes iodine, which, in severe forms of hyperthyroidism, can provoke an increase in the symptoms of the disease.

Vascular examination

Both diagnostic methods are used quite often, but the difference between MRI and CT is the preferred area of ​​study. For CT angiography (examination of blood vessels), multislice computed tomography scanners with the introduction of a contrast agent are used. Most often, the object of study is the aorta and its visceral branches. This allows you to identify areas of narrowing and expansion of the vessels of the chest and abdominal cavities, the possibility of atherosclerosis, the presence of tumors, blockage of the vessel by a thrombus and decide on further treatment.

MRI is more often used to study the vessels of the brain, neck, head and extremities, as well as to diagnose vascular dystonia and determine the causes of headaches.

Conclusion

CT and MRI are two ways to study the body, each of which gives a detailed picture of the state of the body. To understand what the differences between CT and MRI are, it is enough to get acquainted with what these examination methods are generally based on, what indications and contraindications they have. It is impossible to say unequivocally what to choose and what is better - CT or MRI. This is determined individually for each specific case. And only a good specialist will be able to choose a research method suitable for the patient, and decide whether to combine them, choose the location of the search for the focus of the disease and the effective treatment of the disease found.

CT differs from MRI in terms of how it works. At the discretion of the doctor, one or another procedure may be prescribed. Depending on which area of ​​the body should be examined, the diagnostic method is also selected. Also, in many respects, the diagnostic method depends on how many times in a short period of time it will be necessary to conduct an examination. Each of the methods has its own advantages and disadvantages. It is useful to know them for a patient who must undergo a diagnostic examination using a computer or magnetic resonance tomograph.

Both methods are highly informative and allow you to very accurately determine the presence or absence of pathological processes. There is a fundamental difference in the principle of operation of the devices, and because of this, the possibility of scanning the body with the help of these two devices is different. Today, X-ray, CT, MRI are used as the most accurate diagnostic methods.

Computed tomography - CT

Computed tomography is performed using x-rays and, like x-rays, is accompanied by irradiation of the body. Passing through the body, with such a study, the rays make it possible to obtain not a two-dimensional image (unlike an x-ray), but a three-dimensional one, which is much more convenient for diagnosis. Radiation when scanning the body comes from a special ring-shaped circuit located in the capsule of the device in which the patient is located.

In fact, during a CT scan, a series of sequential x-rays (exposure to such rays is harmful) of the affected area is performed. They are performed in different projections, due to which it is possible to obtain an accurate three-dimensional image of the area being examined. All images are combined and turned into a single picture. Of great importance is the fact that the doctor can look at all the images separately and, due to this, study the sections, which, depending on the device settings, can be as thin as 1 mm, and then also a three-dimensional image.

Thus, during a CT scan, the patient receives a certain dose of radiation, as with an x-ray, which is why the procedure cannot be called completely safe.

Magnetic resonance imaging - MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging also provides a three-dimensional image and a series of images that can be viewed separately. Unlike CT, the machine does not use X-rays and the patient does not receive any radiation dose. Electromagnetic waves are used to scan the body. Different tissues give different responses to their impact, and therefore an image is formed. A special receiver in the device captures the reflection of waves from tissues and forms an image. The doctor has the opportunity to enlarge, when necessary, the picture on the screen of the device and see the layer-by-layer sections of the organ of interest. The projection of the images is different, which is necessary for a full examination of the area under study.

Differences in the principle of operation of tomographs give the doctor the opportunity, when detecting pathologies in a particular area of ​​the body, to choose the method that in a particular situation can provide more complete information: CT or MRI.

Indications

Indications for conducting a survey using one method or another are different. Computed tomography reveals changes in the bones, as well as cysts, stones and tumor formations. MRI also shows, in addition to these disorders, also various pathologies of soft tissues, vascular and nerve pathways, articular cartilage.

In some cases, a computer or magnetic resonance tomograph can be used with an equal share of information content. Thus, depending on the equipment of the medical institution, the examination can be carried out using one or another type of equipment for scanning the state of the body.

Contraindications

Both scanning methods have some contraindications for use. In some cases, when the implementation of one method of research is not desirable or prohibited, the option of conducting a second one may be considered.

In the contrast-enhanced procedure, the contraindications for both procedures are the same. This is due to the fact that the contrast agent has limitations for use. It should not be administered in the presence of severe renal and hepatic insufficiency, as well as in case of allergy to contrast.

If it is not known whether there is an intolerance to the agent, then a test for an allergy to a contrast agent is preliminarily performed. Several types of contrast can be used and, as a rule, it is possible to choose a tool that suits a particular patient.

How often can I scan

CT is performed using x-rays, and therefore frequent repetition of the procedure is not allowed. As a rule, it should not be carried out more than 1 time per year. If there is a cancer that requires regular monitoring, the minimum interval between examinations is 2.5 months. In this case, it is better to use MRI, in which there is no negative effect on the body of radiation, which is important for preventing complications. The procedure is not only safer, but completely harmless. MRI can be performed an unlimited number of times, and if necessary, even several scans in 1 day.

When using scanning with contrast, there are also no restrictions on the frequency of the procedure. The only thing to consider is the break between repeated injections of the drug. It is desirable to withstand at least 2 days to reduce the burden on the kidneys. The contrast agent does not cause harm to health. If it is used for CT, then all the limitations are directly related to the X-ray exposure, and not to the effect of the contrast on the body.

Is it possible to have an MRI and a CT scan on the same day?

The principle of impact on the body during examination using computed tomography and magnetic tomography is different, and therefore, when they are combined, the body does not receive an overload. If necessary, both types of tomography can be performed on the same day without fear for health. It's completely safe.

The difference between methods in the study of the brain

Brain scanning is necessary for many disorders, including strokes, circulatory disorders and tumor processes. If you need to take pictures frequently to monitor the condition, then MRI should be preferred, since it does not pose a danger if it is often repeated. Which method will be chosen depends entirely on the equipment of the clinic and the patient's contraindications and restrictions to the procedure.

According to CT and MRI, when studying the brain, they receive equally accurate results, and therefore there will be no differences in diagnosis. Both types of research will show tumors, vascular disorders and foci of inflammation. Additionally, MRI can also determine the density of brain tissue.

An important feature of magnetic resonance imaging is the ability to detect the focus of an ischemic disorder as early as 20 minutes before an acute condition of the patient develops. Because of this, if a pathology is suspected, it is an MRI that is performed.

What is best for lung scanning

If there is a suspicion that the fragments of the ribs have affected the lungs during the injury, then a CT scan is indicated, since this procedure will most accurately demonstrate the presence of bone fragments. The same scan is used for injuries to rule out or detect bleeding. Since computed tomography is performed especially quickly, it is the most optimal in emergency conditions. Also, the procedure allows you to very accurately determine the presence of metastases; CT of the lungs also shows secondary cancerous tumors.

MRI of the lungs is more often prescribed for tumor and inflammatory processes. Examination shows such changes in soft tissues very clearly and allows you to track the dynamics of their development without the risk of excessive exposure of the body.

Differences in the effect of tomographs on the body allow you to get maximum information.

What is optimal in the study of the abdominal cavity

There are no strong differences in the information content of the methods. The exception is that CT better determines the density of the tissues of the abdominal organs, and it is also possible to quickly establish the presence of solid formations and objects, bone fragments and bleeding. In case of traumatic injuries of the abdomen, CT is recommended, since the speed of the procedure makes it possible to identify dangerous violations in the shortest possible time.

MRI provides the most accurate information about the condition of soft tissues and the presence of inflammatory processes in the abdominal cavity. Because of this, the procedure is more often performed when examining the condition, pancreas, liver, spleen, intestines, etc.

What is more informative for diseases of the joints

In case of joint damage, including the hip joint, both CT and MRI are prescribed. Patients are naturally interested in which method is more informative and reliable. In case of disorders in the joints, magnetic resonance imaging is most often performed, which allows you to get maximum information about all tissues, including soft ones, inflammation of which is often accompanied by joint diseases.
In case of injuries or chronic pathologies, MRI can determine the condition of even nerve fibers, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels.

CT of the joints is used for injuries when the presence of damage to the bones or their heads that form the joint is suspected. During this procedure, bleeding into the joint cavity and the presence of bone fragments are quickly detected. Also, this study is carried out for diseases and injuries of the joints, if there are contraindications for magnetic resonance imaging.

If it is necessary to regularly monitor changes in the joint, then only MRI is used, since X-ray overload of the body poses a great threat. For children with problems with the joints, only an MRI is performed.

Which scan is best

Each of the methods is highly informative. The choice of which examination will be carried out depends on the contraindications and which tissues should be examined first. If there are suspicions of problems with the skeletal systems, the doctor chooses CT, and with soft ones - MRI. It cannot be said that one diagnostic procedure is better and the other is worse. Each method is more effective for obtaining certain information. More dangerous to health is CT, but if the examination is carried out correctly, x-rays will not cause negative consequences.

Where is it done and how much does the procedure cost?

The cost of the examination depends on the scanning area and what generation of equipment is used (the difference in price depending on the type of device can be quite large). The clinic in which the procedure is performed also matters. In state medical institutions, you can undergo a CT scan for 3-4 thousand rubles, and an MRI costs from 4 to 9 thousand rubles, depending on the organ being examined. The most expensive is a brain scan.

CT scan

Magnetic resonance imaging

The choice of diagnostic method remains with the attending physician. Both MRI and CT should only be done for medical purposes.