MRI versus CT Scan – Understanding and Comparison

Posted by Aisha Kapoor on November 21st, 2019

Medical advancements in the last century have been revolutionary in saving billions of lives, primarily because they have always been one step ahead of severe conditions, disorders, epidemics, and fatal diseases. In most scenarios, people require preliminary tests to determine the cause and damage caused by a particular medical condition. While X-rays and ultrasounds are adequate to analyse some conditions, critical analysis can only be done using advanced image testing through the use of an MRI scan. Furthermore, a CT scan brings in a higher level of clarity which is especially needed during dire situations.   

Understanding MRI and CT scans

An MRI is essentially defined as magnetic resonance testing which is largely used to view internal body organs. When the test is being performed on a patient, radio waves, along with an uninterrupted magnetic field, recoil from the body fat and water to transmit to a machine that further translates radio waves into images for a radiologist to analyse. An MRI scan is prescribed to diagnose conditions related to the brain, heart, blood vessels, joints, breasts, etc.

When it comes to a CT scan or Computerised Tomography, a series of X-ray images from varied angles of the body help in creating cross-sectional images of the blood veins, soft tissues, and bones that can be studied in a more detailed manner by medical practitioners. This test is vital for monitoring cancers, internal bleeding, fractures, and tumours. For patients who are concerned about their financial situation, the cost of a CT scan is cheaper than that of an MRI.

Comparing the pros and cons

While both image testing tools are widely used, MRI is preferred by doctors before a CT scan as it provides a higher quality of images. The risks with an MRI scan are the usage of metal which can trigger allergies, claustrophobia, and an increase in body temperature. In case of a CT scan, the testing is quickly done which helps in times of emergencies along with a dynamic result that provides utmost clarity to a radiologist. Along with this, the cost of a CT scan is less than that of an MRI, which is another reason for its popularity in the recent times. The disadvantages include exposure to radiation, risks to pregnant women, and allergic reactions to dyes being used.

The decision to choose between an MRI and CT scan is made by a doctor based on the symptoms observed in a patient. Discussing the procedures of both image testing should be ensured before initiating either of them as some patients might be prone to allergic reactions or suffer from medical conditions that can affect their tests. For a detailed image of specific body organs, an MRI would be recommended while a CT scan would be useful to get an overall analysis.