CT scan and MRI are the two widely common imaging tests. Both these diagnostic procedures help diagnose cancer staging and determine blood clots, inflammation, spiral problems, torn ligaments, bone and joint issues, etc. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging help diagnose and stage cancer and this blog talks about the differences between them.
For cancer treatment in North Bengal, reach out to the leading cancer hospital and research center in the region. Advanced diagnosis and high-end medical care help patients heal cancer. Several tests that oncologists might suggest besides CT scans and MARIs, such as PET-Ct scan, biopsy, PET-MRI scan, blood tests.
Understanding the differences between CT scan and MRI
Here are some of the points that help you differentiate a CT scan from an MRI. However, there’s nothing like an MRI is more important than a CT scan or vice versa. In order to detect cancer, various tests are done, which help rule out the location, size, and stage of cancer aptly.
- CT scans are good at diagnosing lung cancer, bladder cancer, ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, while MRIs are good at showing brain tumors or spinal canal-related concerns.
- CT scans are faster than MRIs. However, the exact time depends on individual situations. Typically, it takes around 10 mins. MRIs used to take about 30 minutes to 1 hour or more.
- Doctors order a CT scan more commonly to get a picture of organs, tissues, skeletal structure, blood clots, organ injuries, while MRIs provide more detailed pictures of tissue abnormalities. Tests are decided based on what suits the patient’s condition. Receive high-end cancer treatment in North Bengal at a reputed cancer hospital and research center.
- A CT scan uses X-rays to obtain detailed images of soft tissues, bones, and organs and can detect bone fractures, pneumonia in the lungs, tumor growth in the organs, tumor shape, size, and location, and blood vessels that feed a tumor. Your doctor may perform a CT-guided biopsy to take out a small piece of tissue to examine cell abnormalities.
- An MRI scan uses radio waves and powerful magnets to create detailed computer-generated images of the body. MRI scans are excellent at showing cancers that are hard to detect under a CT scan, such as cancer of the prostate, uterus, liver. The cancer spreads to bones and the brain are well shown on an MRI.
- CT scans can show places where cancer spreads or whether malignant tumors are recurring, good at examining the entire body. Also, CT scans can help rule out if the cancer treatment is working. Undergo optimum radiation therapy in North Bengal.
More importantly, this reading shows the differences between CT scans are MRIs, and does not exhibit which one is better. While MRIs are great at contrast resolution, CT scans are great at spatial resolution.
Some patients worry about exposure to ionizing radiation during a CT scan. Certain patients are worried about MRI procedures as they feel claustrophobic or breathless. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have the same concerns to ease your worries and pass a successful imaging test.
