The concept of multislice computed tomography: interpretation of the results of the examination of MSCT, differences from MRI and CT. What is the difference between MRI and MSCT

If pathological changes in the brain tissues or cerebral vessels are suspected, the doctor will prescribe an examination for the patient, which will include the use of one of the scanning methods - MSCT or MRI. What is multislice CT? In what cases and how is such a study carried out? How is it different from an MRI? Let's figure it out in this article.

What is MSCT for brain research?

Multislice CT scan for the brain is a scanning technique that allows for volumetric reconstruction of the structures inside the patient's skull. This is possible due to the fact that the tomograph makes a huge number of very thin sections in a short time.

The essence of the study

MSCT technology is based on the physical properties of X-rays, which are used to visualize the structures inside the human skull. Modern devices are equipped with parallel detectors with high sensitivity. They record x-rays that pass through the patient's skull and transmit the data to a computer. Specialized software processes information, on the basis of which it forms an anatomical section of the area being scanned.

How long does the procedure take?

How long does a CT scan take? An examination by the method of multislice CT does not require a long stay in an uncomfortable position, as, for example, MRI. The whole procedure, taking into account the preparatory manipulations, takes 10 - 20 minutes of time. In this case, the process of scanning the brain will take from a few seconds to a couple of minutes.

Using contrast

In MSCT-diagnosis of the brain, contrast is used infrequently. A procedure with contrast is prescribed in cases where there is a suspicion of the presence of space-occupying formations in the brain. A contrast agent is always used in multislice CT of the vessels of the head and the circle of Willis to visualize bone tissue damage, acute cerebrovascular accidents, and also when MRI is impossible for any reason. In such situations, an iodine-based composition is used, which is administered to the patient intravenously.

Lactating women during lactation should take into account that the contrast is excreted from the body during the day and until it is completely eliminated, it can negatively affect the composition of milk. For this reason, it is recommended that you refrain from breastfeeding for 24 to 36 hours after a contrast-enhanced scan.

Indications for the appointment of MSCT of the head

Diagnosis of the brain is carried out only if indicated. The procedure involves the impact of X-ray radiation on the human body, so it is not prescribed unnecessarily or “for prevention purposes”. Indications for MSCT examination of the head are:

• diagnosis of pathologies of the temporal bones that can provoke hearing impairment;
• detection of tumor formations in the brain;
• if the patient has signs of a stroke, MSCT helps to establish blood clots or bleeding;
• during a biopsy, tomography provides the ability to control the procedure;
• testing the effectiveness of therapy against malignant neoplasms in the brain (both surgical and conservative methods);
• establishing the reasons for the change in the degree of consciousness or its loss;
• in strokes, this is necessary to visualize the sites of brain lesions in the selection of the optimal strategy for further treatment;
• planning a surgical operation;
• to detect pathological processes in the middle ear;
• if you suspect intracranial hypertension or hydrocephalus - to study changes in the cavities of the brain;
• diagnosis of vascular anomalies;
• diagnosis of pathological causes that provoke the occurrence of symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, paralysis, visual pathology, numbness, confusion.

How is multislice computed tomography performed?

Multislice computed tomography is carried out in specialized rooms equipped with modern equipment. The patient changes into loose clothing that does not restrict movement, removes all metal elements from the body (these are jewelry, piercings, watches, dentures). Before starting the procedure, you need to take the most comfortable position. Scanning is painless and causes almost no discomfort to a person. If we are talking about a study using a radiopaque substance, then the patient may feel heat or an unpleasant taste of metal in the oral cavity.

Differences between MRI and MSCT

When diagnosing pathological conditions of the brain, its vascular system and bone tissues of the skull, a study using MRI or MSCT can be prescribed. In some cases (for example, if it is necessary to clarify or confirm a preliminary diagnosis), the patient has to undergo both types of scanning. For this reason, many are concerned about the question of whether there is a difference between magnetic resonance and multislice computed tomography, and which technique is better.

Only the attending physician can make a choice in favor of using one or another technique, or recommend undergoing both types of examination. It should be based on the individual characteristics of the patient's body, take into account his anamnesis and the fact of the presence or absence of contraindications in each case.

Contraindications and risks of multislice CT

The technique of multislice computed tomography is based on the same physical phenomena that underlie conventional CT. The list of contraindications to the use of this method of scanning the human body is similar. Conditions for which multispiral CT is not recommended include:

• multiple myelomas;
• allergy to radiopaque substance;
• asthma;
• kidney failure;
• decompensated heart failure;
• pregnancy;
• taking medications in the form of metformin by patients suffering from diabetes mellitus - if MSCT is necessary, the drug is temporarily canceled (one day before the procedure), after the completion of the examination, therapy is resumed.

Examination using MSCT is associated with certain risks. The doctor who prescribes the examination procedure should warn the patient about them. It should be borne in mind that modern tomographs emit an insignificant amount of radiation, so the likelihood of risks being realized is minimized, but not completely eliminated.

The main consequences include:

• an allergic reaction to the components of the radiopaque solution (iodine, dye);
• malfunctions of insulin pumps, neurostimulators and other implanted electronic devices;
• oncogenic risk (the risk group includes young patients subject to repeated procedures).

In the world every day there are more and more people who develop serious diseases or some kind of symptoms. Modern research methods such as MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and MSCT (multispiral computed tomography) help to identify diseases in the early stages, changes, pathologies, determine the cause of the disease, and also select the desired course of treatment. The principle of operation of these two diagnostics is aimed at visualizing internal systems and organs, but they act differently.

Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most modern and effective types of examination, which helps to see almost all internal organs in the human body. During the procedure, the human body is not exposed to any radiation, everything happens with the help of "magnetization", as a result of which some ions behave in such a way that it becomes possible to visualize what is happening in the human body.

Sometimes an MRI is better for the patient because there are different types of MRI scanners today. They make the procedure possible for patients of any body type, with any symptoms.

With regard to multislice computed tomography, in this case, the body is scanned by x-rays. The information that is transmitted by rays enters a special computer program in the form of electrical signals. After that, an image is obtained, which is decoded according to the MSCT data. Such tomography at the time of its creation was used only for scanning the brain. But the development of medical technology has made it possible to create devices that diagnose diseases throughout the body.

What is the difference between MRI and MSCT

The indisputable advantage of magnetic resonance imaging is that it is this kind of tomography that makes it possible to obtain images in any dimension and plane.

This method of examination does not involve surgery or any other direct penetration into the body. Preparing the patient is practically not needed. The only thing is that when assessing the digestive organs on the recommendation of a doctor, it will be necessary to adhere to a certain diet. If an examination of the pelvic organs is to be performed, then it is also better for women during menstrual bleeding not to resort to this diagnosis.

As for MSCT, such tomography differs as follows. This type of study of the patient's body allows you to get thinner sections that can be rebuilt in different planes. It also becomes possible to build three-dimensional structures, the device allows you to get data on how common tumors are in various organs.

What to choose MRI or MSCT

Even if you know how one type of diagnosis differs from another, this does not mean at all that you yourself will be able to determine what you need to do. Moreover, not always even the medical staff themselves can understand what is more appropriate to do. And the point is not in their qualifications, but in the fact that there are quite difficult cases when the choice is rather difficult. However, even when you have a simple diagnosis, you should not prescribe an MRI or MSCT to yourself. Trust the doctor - he will tell you which tomography will be optimal.

What is the difference between MRI tomography and MSCT diagnostics

The main difference between the two types of surveys presented is their principle of operation. In other words, MRI works with a magnetic field and radio frequency radiation, while MSCT works with X-rays.

Depending on the characteristics of the body, it can react to different types of rays in different ways. Hence, it becomes necessary to consult with the observing doctor, who will be able to say for sure whether this or that examination is suitable for the patient, or it is better to refuse it.

Do not forget that there are a number of contraindications to the passage of magnetic resonance imaging. So, for example, women with suspected pregnancy or pregnant women in the early stages cannot undergo it. If a person has a pacemaker or other metal devices and parts, then the passage of this kind of diagnostics is contraindicated for them.

There is a difference in which machine to undergo a tomography. Without delving into the power of the rays and other parameters, it is worth dwelling on the fact that there are two types of MRI scanner.

An open tomograph today is designed to diagnose children, the elderly, as well as those who have claustrophobia or mental trauma. People of dense physique or tall stature also simply do not fit in a closed "tunnel" tomograph, so they are assigned to study with an open machine.

Patients are strongly advised not to make independent decisions based on the cost of the procedure or other subjective considerations. The first step to take is to contact your doctor. Only he will tell exactly which procedure to prefer, and only he will be able to say whether a particular person has contraindications to undergoing any procedure.

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The algorithm for diagnosing diseases of the central nervous system includes a strict sequence of certain research methods. CT and brain MRI These are not mutually exclusive, but complementary methods.

Comparative characteristics of survey methods

CT of the brain is a technique that allows you to get an image on a computer monitor from the bones of the vault and base of the skull, brain tissues. Layered x-ray images are synthesized into a clear picture, and allow you to assess the structure of the skull and its contents without being introduced into the body. That is, the method is non-invasive. The intensity with which X-ray study is absorbed by human tissues is judged by the density of the areas under study. Normally, each organ has its own density. When the density characteristics change, they speak of pathology.

Imaging in head CT is due to the fact that the x-ray beam goes around the head along the path from ear to ear, stops after a certain distance and captures the image. The converted picture appears on the computer monitor and allows you to draw a conclusion about the density of the tissue under study and make a correct diagnosis. Due to the fact that the image comes from several points on the plane, a three-dimensional image is formed. The duration of the examination is up to 1 minute.

MRI of the brain is also a non-invasive technique that allows you to get images from the soft tissues of the human body. It is considered incorrect to evaluate images of bones in magnetic resonance imaging, since the method is not intended for this.

MRI is based on the registration of magnetic vibrations of all constituent molecules of the human body. Each molecule has its own magnetic oscillation frequency, which is registered, converted and an image appears on the monitor. A person is not exposed to X-ray load when performing this technique. The image appears in three planes, thanks to which it is possible to clearly understand where the pathological focus is located, how it contacts with surrounding tissues.

Good to know: Why do an EEG of the brain for adults and children?

The magnetic field induction is measured in Tesla. The more Tesla the MRI machine has, the higher its resolution, the more informative the examination, the better visible fine details and various morphological changes. Most often, modern MRI machines have a magnetic field strength of 3.5 Tesla. In experimental oncology laboratories and foreign clinics, they use equipment with a power of 7 Tesla, which allows you to see the change in metabolism in cells and make a diagnosis long before the appearance of a tumor node.

CT or MRI of the brain can perform the introduction of a contrast agent to increase the information content of the examination. In the first case, an iodine-containing substance is injected intravenously, in the second - a magnetic preparation of gadolinium.

Regardless of the magnetic field strength, the duration of an MRI of the brain is about 15 minutes.

When receiving a doctor's referral for an MSCT examination, the patient is often not sufficiently aware of the essence and features of this procedure. The doctor sometimes prescribes a scan of the kidneys, liver, lumbar or lumbosacral spine. MSCT - what is it? How to properly prepare for research? What is the difference between MSCT and conventional computed tomography? Which is better - multislice computed tomography or MRI? Let's figure it out in this article.

The concept of multislice computed tomography in medicine

Only a quarter of a century ago, active use of multislice computed tomography began in medicine. In short, this type of study is called MSCT. What it is? The technique is an advanced computed tomography. With MSCT, it is possible to take 160 - 320 images in one approach, which allows you to track even minimal pathological changes in the human body as accurately as possible.

Indications and contraindications for MSCT

The MSCT procedure allows for a three-dimensional reconstruction of bones and joints, is used to diagnose and study fractures, is actively used to justify the need for surgical intervention and makes it possible to visualize discs, muscles, ligaments to identify the current state of the skeletal system.

A study using MSCT is indicated in the following cases:

• it is necessary to examine the coronary vessels and aorta in a short time (it is also effective for identifying emergency conditions that are life-threatening for the patient);
• diagnosis of internal bleeding of unknown etiology;
• detection of abdominal aortic aneurysm, pulmonary thromboembolism;
• to confirm / refute dangerous pathologies of the heart and blood vessels;
• diagnosing renal, cardiac, pulmonary and vascular insufficiency;
• detection of oncological formations with accurate determination of the size and localization of the tumor;
• in osteoporosis - in order to measure bone density;
• diagnosis of pathologies of the maxillofacial region.

With all the advantages of this method of examination, there is a whole range of contraindications. Allocate absolute, relative and individual contraindications. In the first case, the diagnosis is not carried out at all, in the second, scanning with a tomograph is permissible only if it is vital and under the supervision of a doctor.

Individual contraindications are taken into account when conducting multislice tomography of certain organs.

What organs are being examined?

Multispiral CT was originally developed for the diagnosis of brain pathologies. However, at present, MSCT of the head is not the only type of study. The technique is actively used in the examination of almost all organs and systems of the human body.

MSCT examination of the spine is divided into several types:

1. MSCT scan of the lumbosacral spine. With anomalies in the development of the department, osteoporosis, instability of the vertebrae, fractures in this area.
2. MSCT diagnostics of the thoracic spine. Arthrosis, stenosis, hemorrhages in the spinal cord, spondylosis, pathological changes in posture, and so on.
3. Thoracic examination. Injuries, headaches or pain in the neck of unknown etiology, compression of the vertebrae, myelopathy, anomalies in the development of the cervical spine.

Preparation for MSC tomography and examination stages

Preparation for the examination will depend on which organ will be examined and whether a contrast agent will be used. Contrast can be intravenous or bolus. It is not difficult to prepare for a head, cervical, soft tissue, thoracic, or MSCT scan of the spine if the procedure is performed without contrast. It is enough for the patient to simply come to the procedure on time in loose clothing, take a passport and necessary medical documents with him, and remove all metal objects.

Before scanning OBP - abdominal organs (liver - including with cirrhosis, kidneys, intestines), you will need to check for hypersensitivity to iodine, exclude gas-forming and solid foods from the diet the day before the procedure. 5 hours before MSCT, you can not eat at all. Also, the patient must dissolve 40 ml of Urografin 76% or Triombrast 60% in 2 liters of warm boiled water and drink the composition no later than 3 hours before the procedure. Make an enema.

If MSCT with contrast is indicated, then no earlier than 3 days before the examination, it is necessary to take tests (blood and urine) - when the level of urea is elevated or creatinine is present, the procedure will be postponed. Diet and enema - as in scanning the abdominal cavity. Urografin solution will need to be divided into 2 parts - half is drunk the evening before, and the second - in the morning before the study.

Such an examination takes from 5 minutes to 1 hour (time may vary on different tomographs). The patient is placed on a special table that slides into the apparatus. During the entire scan, the patient must lie still. The scanner rotates around it, transmitting information from the sensors to the computer. If computed tomography is performed with contrast, then after the first series of images, the table is pulled out, the patient is injected with a contrast agent and the scan is repeated again.

Deciphering the results: what does the picture show?

Deciphering the results of MSCT does not take much time. Depending on which department or organ was scanned (whether the kidneys, liver, entire spine or, for example, only its lumbar region were examined), the images taken are decoded from 1 hour to a day. In most cases, two hours is sufficient.

The study shows signs of pathological changes in almost any organ at the initial stage, and also allows you to track the consequences of injuries or observe the dynamics of treatment. Decoding and interpretation is carried out only by a qualified doctor - you cannot draw conclusions on your own. For example, the main signs of cirrhosis of the liver are uneven edges of the organ and its increased size. However, the layman is unlikely to notice the same cirrhosis on the negatives.

What is better, MSCT, CT or MRI, how do they differ?

Multislice computed tomography should not be confused with MRI. It's not the same thing. The two types of study are different: MRI results are obtained as a result of exposure to high-frequency radiation and a magnetic field. Whereas computed tomography is based on x-ray radiation (the radiation dose is small, but still there).

MRI is ideal for scanning soft tissues and hollow organs, while multispiral diagnostics is more suitable for diagnosing hard tissues (for example, bone).

CT has differences from the multislice type of study. The latter is considered more advanced and relatively safe. Multislice CT, compared to conventional CT, makes it possible to obtain volumetric images of organs with a layer thickness of less than 1 mm and significantly expand the area of ​​anatomical examination.

The new technique is better and compares favorably with simple CT in the following indicators:

1. less harmful radiation;
2. better contrast resolution;
3. efficient use of the x-ray tube;
4. scanning is faster;
5. temporal and spatial resolution improved.

Detailed information about MRI and MSCT studies: which is better, which method to choose, differences and similarities. Detailed description in our article .

The difference between MSCT, MRI, and CT (CT)

Diagnostics in medicine plays a major role in determining pathologies or the development of a disease. With the help of diagnostics, you can identify health problems in the early stages and start treatment on time, without waiting for obvious manifestations of the disease.

Which method is effective in diagnosing, how to choose a good and harmless one for you - only a doctor can advise on this.

Many people are aware of the existence of CT - an X-ray machine - and MRI, which uses a magnetic field and radio waves to read "echoes" to create an image. But tomography is not only two types, as it is believed. The modern world is changing rapidly, along with MRI and CT, MSCT has appeared.

MRI or MSCT? What is the best choice for diagnosing diseases?

Firstly, the work of MRI is based on the properties of a high-frequency magnetic field, which causes reflective signals of hydrogen protons (reflects water or substances that contain hydrogen) in the body. Different organs and systems have different density, composition and amount of hydrogen atoms. The difference in the reverse flow of pulses is captured by the MRI device, fixing images on the film in steps of 1 to 5 millimeters in black and white contrast.

Secondly, the MRI machine is a cylinder-like capsule; a magnetic field is created in it, where a person is placed on a special table. The devices are configured for a reverse pulse, they record data, process it and transfer it further to a computer connected to the device.

Scheme of the device of the MRI machine

Comparing the devices and the principle of their work, we recall that a CT scanner, firstly, is a kind of X-ray. X-rays go around the patient in a spiral and create sequentially transverse images of an organ or system. CT stands for "spiral computed tomography". The spiral computed tomograph also scans the organ (system/site), creating a picture in millimeter steps, which gives a layered study.

The appearance of CT is similar to MRI:

• there is a diagnostic table on which the patient is placed for the duration of the study.
• the table is placed inside the ring (gantry). In the MRI machine, the examination table slides into the capsule.

Scheme of the device of a computed tomograph

On the outer back of the gantry there is an X-ray tube that emits X-rays, as well as devices (sensors) that record the results, transferring them to a connected computer (analyzer).

The modern device has several ray tubes, which allows you to examine patients efficiently and quickly. Such devices are called multislice tomographs (MSCT).

How is MRI different from MSCT?

MRI differs from MSCT in its technology, limitations for examining patients, safety and scope. MSCT, in essence, work and diagnostics is another type of x-ray. Precautions and limitations for MSCT are exactly the same as for radiography or CT.

Consider MRI and MSCT. What is the difference between these two types of diagnostics?

When choosing one or another diagnostic method, the doctor is guided not only by limitations, but also by the need to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

The magnetic apparatus can only examine soft tissues, since the number of hydrogen atoms in them is high, which allows the applied pulse to be reflected back.

The exact result of the study gives both MRI and MSCT. Both devices are used in the diagnosis of diseases and injuries of internal organs, whereas earlier CT (SCT) was used only for viewing and diagnosing bone tissues. Now, at the modern level for diagnostics, the doctor chooses the device that allows you to identify pathologies of organs or systems most clearly, without creating a burden on the patient's body due to the limitations of the study.