With the advent of the 21st century, medicine has risen to a very high level of progress, having mastered many types of complete examination of the human body. Today, high-tech methods such as CT and MRI are used for these purposes. Read about it here.
But often, the patient has a natural question: what is the difference between these types of diagnostics and which one is safer, more effective and preferable. Let's try to understand this dilemma by comparing both methods.

What is CT?

CT (computed tomography) – the principle of diagnosing the body, with the help of which it is possible to obtain clear and detailed images of the necessary internal organs. The examination is carried out using x-rays, or more simply, rays.

In many healthcare institutions in Russia, X-ray CT is the most popular and primary type of examination of human organs.

It is worth noting that this diagnostic method appeared in the world not so long ago, but quickly took a leading position and was recognized by all specialists, which allows us to have no doubt about its quality.

Computed tomography was developed in 1972 two scientists Godfrey Hounsfield and Allan Cormack, who received the Nobel Prize for their discovery.

Operating principle of CT

Computed tomography does not take much time, its operating principle is quite simple. During the examination, the patient is placed on a special table synchronized with a scanner that resembles a large ring. The scanner rotates and sends beams through parts of the body.

During this process, a cross-sectional image of the organ being studied is displayed on the doctor’s monitor. After which a photo is taken, which can be printed and studied in more detail. The entire procedure usually takes from 5 to 20 minutes, during which a person should lie in a calm state, without making sudden movements.

You can prepare for a CT scan in the following ways:

• do not eat solid food in the evening;
• do not drink alcohol the day before the procedure;
• consult your doctor in advance;
• take off your clothes.

The tomography process itself is usually carried out by a specialist radiologist, who then issues a conclusion. However, an explanation of the diagnosis can only be obtained from a radiologist, as well as a therapist or surgeon.

In what cases is CT used?

X-ray computed tomography helps to see almost any internal organ and part of the body, identifying disorders or pathologies in them.

CT scans can be used to examine:

1. Limbs– determines disorders in the hands, shoulders, knees, etc.
2. Spleen– will show disturbances in functioning or size.
3. Liver– detects tumors and bleeding of the liver.
4. chest– helps to find diseases of the heart, lungs, esophagus and aorta.
5. Abdomen– will study the esophageal system, identify cysts, tumors, bleeding, inflammation.
6. Bladder– used mainly to identify kidney stones and urinary tract obstruction.
7. Pancreas and gallbladder– will find stones or indicate obstruction of the bile ducts.
8. Adrenal glands– a tumor or changes in size can be determined.
9. Pelvic area.
10. Spine.

Among other things, CT can study such complex parts of our body as blood vessels, blood flow, but most importantly, X-rays are used to determine tumors and the stage of cancer, showing the spread of metastases.

Contraindications

In almost any case, before going to see a radiologist and agreeing to a CT scan, you need to consult a therapist. After all, although this diagnostic is used everywhere, it has some contraindications.

Complications after undergoing a CT scan:

1. Allergic reaction.
2. Health problems in people with diabetes.
3. Low risk of failure of implanted medical devices.
4. Panic when suffering from a fear of closed spaces.

With caution and only with the permission of a doctor, pregnant women, allergy sufferers, diabetics, asthmatics, and those with claustrophobia should undergo the CT procedure.

There is an opinion that CT scans, due to radiation harmful to humans, provokes the appearance of cancer, especially in those people who are susceptible to this disease. However, this version is still disputed and does not have a definite answer.

What is MRI?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) - helps doctors get inside the human body, seeing this or that part of the body in order to determine abnormalities in it or establish a disease associated with the pathology of a certain organ.

Tomography excludes physical intervention in the body, but with the help of a unique research technology - nuclear magnetic resonance - it allows you to very clearly see even microscopic disorders in both organs and tissues of the human body.

MRI was developed around the same time as CT. The world has heard about a new type of diagnostics in 1973 However, it was built on completely different principles than computed tomography, but was also an effective and safer means of examination.

Operating principle of MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging is a rather complex process of examining the body. He may take from 30 minutes to 2 hours. During the procedure, the patient is placed on a special table, which is then pushed into the scanner capsule.

The powerful magnet and radio frequency coil present in the structure of the scanner will cause the person to resonate or emit weak radio signals which are collected by the scanner. Based on the signals emitted, the doctor will be able to determine whether the organ is healthy or has abnormalities. These signals are then processed by a powerful computer, producing image of the desired organ - tomogram.

Preparation for an MRI includes:

• do not eat solid food in the evening;
• Before the procedure, remove all jewelry and accessories;
• remove the patches;
• tell your doctor if you have implants in your body;
• If some clothes will be left behind, you need to empty your pockets.

MRI is not the most pleasant procedure, during which, most often, the patient is placed on his back and pushed into the capsule. Sometimes, you have to fasten the patient with belts so that he is motionless - this is a very important point. In addition, the tomograph produces various noises that are not very pleasant for humans; some clinics provide headphones with music or earplugs. During the test, the patient may be asked to hold their breath, close their eyes, or remain still.

There is another MRI scanner, the so-called lightweight version, which is suitable for people suffering from claustrophobia - fear of closed spaces. This is an open scanner where the patient is not placed in a capsule. But this type of diagnostics is not so common in Russia, and therefore it is quite difficult to find a clinic with such equipment. In addition, the quality of the tomogram (image) will most likely not be as good.

In what cases is MRI used?

MRI cannot be used in all cases, since some complications can only be determined by a computed tomograph with X-rays. However, the most popular diagnoses that patients come to the doctor with are quite easy to identify using magnetic resonance imaging.

MRI diagnostics allows you to examine:

1. Brain– bruises, changes in brain fluid, tumors.
2. All parts of the spine– pathologies of the spine, trauma.
3. Joints– infections and lesions.
4. Vessels– pathologies.
5. Abdomen– ulcers, bleeding, tumors.
6. Liver– inflammation, bleeding, stones
7. Rib cage– heart disease, cardiovascular diseases, changes in the respiratory organs.
8. Bladder– stones, obstruction.

MRI can also detect such a terrible disease as a malignant tumor. In this case, the device will show the first symptoms when cancer is just beginning to develop in the body.

Answer to the question: read here.

Contraindications

Until now, the effect of the magnetic field used in MRI on humans has not been fully studied. What is known is that this magnet is very powerful. In this connection, doctors do not recommend MRI, for example, for people with metal implants in the body.

In addition, there are such contraindications as:

• iron tattoo pigments;
• permanent makeup;
• medical plasters on the body;
• claustrophobia;
• pacemakers and other medical implants;
• dental crowns.

People with allergies, people with heart failure, people with hearing loss and pregnant women should also consult a doctor before going into an MRI capsule.

Distinctive features of CT and MRI

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging have today equally reached their peak of perfection. These are high-tech methods of flat examination of the human body, used in almost all medical institutions. Both methods allow you to diagnose almost all parts of the body, organs and tissues, as well as display high-quality images of the examined area.

However MRI and CT have completely different methods of influencing the human body. The equipment used for both types is radically different in operating principle, design and structure. Patients are increasingly choosing the computer method, while doctors are recommending magnetic resonance imaging.

Their fundamental difference:

• MRI is based on the work of a magnetic field, and CT is based on X-ray radiation;
• MRI determines the chemical composition of the part being examined, and CT sees the physical condition;
• MRI examines mainly soft tissues, and CT scans the skeleton;
• MRI is carried out in a closed capsule, where the entire person is placed, and with CT, only the necessary part of the body is placed in a closed area;
• An MRI procedure takes a long time, and a CT scan is much faster;

It is believed that MRI is a safer procedure for the body, which excludes radiation from radiation, so magnetic examination can be performed more often than computer examination. However, even here a controversial issue arises, because the effect of a magnetic field on humans has not been fully studied by medicine.

Advantages and disadvantages of MRI and CT

Patients, when choosing a diagnostic method for themselves, often pay attention only to the advantages of the procedure: its low cost, availability of the device in the nearest clinic, quick results. But it is worth paying attention to the shortcomings, which ultimately can give an inaccurate result and lead to complications.

Advantages of CT:

• fast;
• inexpensive;
• excellent examination of bone structures;
• high quality images of the skeleton;
• comfort of the procedure.

Disadvantages of CT:

• it is difficult to determine the early stage of cancer;
• soft tissues are difficult to see;
• radiation from x-rays;
• contraindications during pregnancy.

Advantages of MRI:

• excellent examination of soft tissues;
• availability of the procedure, which is performed in almost all clinics;
• exposure to the body not by radiation, but by radio waves;
• detection of a tumor in the early stages;
• image of not only transverse, but also longitudinal sections.

Disadvantages of MRI:

• inability to detect certain bone pathologies;
• the procedure takes too long;
• high cost;
• impossibility of examining people, for example, with claustrophobia.

Which is better: CT or MRI?

It is impossible to answer this question unambiguously, because in medical practice there are many cases where patients had to do two research methods at once in order to identify all the deficiencies of the body. This suggests that one type of diagnostics can either replace another or complement it. So, when detecting cancer, two methods can be used at once - one will show the number of metastases, the other - the tumor itself.

Both the patient himself, depending on his personal preferences, and the attending physician, who will certainly determine which scan will be most effective in a particular case, can choose between MRI and CT.

Modern diagnostic methods make it possible to detect diseases in the initial stages. Nowadays, it is impossible to imagine medicine without two important abbreviations - CT and MRI. Considering that both diagnostic methods go hand in hand, people ignorant in medicine constantly confuse them and do not know which method to give preference to.

Many people believe that computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are identical. This is an erroneous statement.

In fact, the only thing they have in common is the word “tomography,” which means the production of images of layer-by-layer sections of the analyzed area.

After scanning, the data from the device is sent to a computer, as a result the doctor examines the images and draws conclusions. This is where the similarities between CT and MRI end. Their principles of action and indications for use are different.

How are both of these methods different?

To understand the differences, you need to understand the technique.

Computed tomography is based on x-ray radiation. That is, CT is similar to X-rays, but the tomograph has a different way of recognizing data, as well as increased radiation exposure.

During a CT scan, the selected area is treated with X-rays layer by layer. They pass through tissues, alternating densities, and are absorbed by the same tissues. As a result, the system receives layer-by-layer images of sections of the entire body. The computer processes this information and produces three-dimensional images.

MRI diagnostics is characterized by the influence nuclear magnetic resonance. The tomograph sends electromagnetic pulses, after which an effect occurs in the area under study, which is scanned and processed by the equipment, then displaying a three-dimensional image.

From the above it follows that MRI and CT have a significant difference. In addition, computed tomography cannot be performed repeatedly due to the large radiation exposure.

Another difference is the research time. If 10 seconds are enough to obtain a result using CT, then during the MRI process a person is in a closed “capsule” from 10 to 40 minutes. And it is important to remain completely still. This is why magnetic resonance imaging is not performed on people suffering from claustrophobia, and why children are often given anesthesia.

Equipment

Patients cannot always immediately determine which device is in front of them - MRI or CT. They are similar in appearance, but differ in design. The main component of a CT tomograph is a beam tube, and an MRI is an electromagnetic pulse generator. Magnetic resonance imaging scanners come in closed and open types. CT does not have divisions of this kind, but has its own subtypes: positor emission tomography, cone beam tomography, multilayer spiral tomography.

Indications for MRI and CT

Often the patient prefers the more expensive MRI method, believing that it is more effective. In fact, there are certain indications for conducting these studies.

MRI is prescribed to:

• Identify tumors in the body
• Determine the condition of the spinal cord membranes
• Study the nerves located inside the skull, as well as the structure of the connective tissues of the brain
• Analyze muscles and ligaments
• Examine patients with multiple sclerosis
• To study pathologies of the joint surface.

CT scans are prescribed to:

• Examine bone defects
• Determine the degree of joint damage
• Identify internal bleeding and injuries
• Examine the brain or spinal cord for damage
• Detect pneumonia, tuberculosis and other pathologies of the chest cavity
• Establish a diagnosis in the genitourinary system
• Identify vascular pathologies
• Study hollow organs.

Contraindications

Considering that a CT scan is nothing more than radiation exposure, it is not recommended pregnant women and during lactation.

Magnetic resonance imaging is not performed in the following situations:

• presence metal parts in the body and on the human body;
• claustrophobia;
• located in the tissue pacemakers and other electronic devices;
• sick, suffering nervous pathologies who, due to illness, are unable to remain stationary for a long time;
• patients weighing from 150-200 kg.

MRI and CT in questions and answers

• Is CT always better than X-ray?

If a patient has pulpitis in a tooth or a regular bone fracture, an x-ray is sufficient. If it is necessary to clarify the diagnosis of an unclear nature, to determine the exact location of the pathology, more information will be needed. And here a computed tomography has already been shown. But the final decision is made by the doctor.

• Does CT scan produce radiation?

On the contrary, with a computed tomography the radiation dose is even higher than with a plain x-ray. But this type of research is prescribed for a reason. This method is used when it is truly caused by medical necessity.

• Why is a contrast agent administered to a patient during a CT scan?

In black and white photographs, contrast helps create clear boundaries of organs and tissues. Before studying the large or small intestine or stomach, the patient is injected with a barium suspension in an aqueous solution. However, non-hollow organs and vascular areas will require a different contrast. If the patient needs examination of the liver, blood vessels, brain, urinary tract and kidneys, he is shown a contrast agent in the form of an iodine preparation. But first, the doctor must make sure that there is no allergy to iodine.

• Which is more effective: MRI or CT?

These methods cannot be said to replace each other. They differ in the degree of sensitivity to certain systems of our body. Thus, MRI is a diagnostic method that gives better results when studying organs with a high fluid content, pelvic organs, and intervertebral discs. CT scans are prescribed to study the bone skeleton and lung tissue.

To establish an accurate diagnosis for problems with the digestive organs, kidneys, neck, CT and MRI are often equal in importance. But CT is considered a faster diagnostic method and is suitable for cases when there is no time to scan with a magnetic resonance imaging scanner.

• Is MRI safer than CT?

With magnetic resonance imaging, radiation exposure is excluded. But it is worth understanding that this is a young diagnostic method, so it is still difficult to determine what consequences it has for the body. In addition, MRI has more contraindications (presence of metal implants in the body, claustrophobia, installed pacemaker).

And finally, once again briefly about the differences between CT and MRI:

• CT involves x-rays, MRI uses an electromagnetic field.
• CT studies the physical state of the selected area, MRI studies the chemical state.
• MRI should be chosen for scanning soft tissues, CT for bones.
• With CT scanning, only the part being examined is located in the scanned device; with MRI, the entire human body is located.
• MRI is allowed to be performed more often than CT.
• MRI is not performed in cases of claustrophobia, the presence of metal objects in the body, or a body weight of more than 200 kg. CT scanning is contraindicated in pregnant women.
• MRI is safer in terms of its impact on the body, but at present the consequences of the influence of the magnetic field have not been fully studied.

So, we have looked at the differences between MRI and CT. In any case, the choice in favor of one or another research method is made by the doctor based on the patient’s complaints and clinical picture.

The use of the latest techniques in body diagnostics makes it possible to identify at the early stages various pathological changes in the functioning of human systems and organs. Today, it is difficult to imagine the development of medicine without non-invasive methods for diagnosing various diseases, namely computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. But, when faced with the choice of one or another diagnostic technique, it is important to know not only the main differences between MRI and CT, as well as their pros and cons, but it is also necessary to understand under what conditions their use would be appropriate.

Operating principles and main differences between CT and MRI

To have a simple understanding of the main differences between MRI and CT, you first need to understand how they work.

When examining parts of the body using MRI, the patient is exposed to both pulsating constant magnetic fields and radio frequency radiation. They are formed by a special device - a tomograph. In a matter of seconds, the device sends a radiofrequency pulse to a certain area, which causes hydrogen atoms in the body's cells to sway and resonate. Next, special equipment collects the received signals, processes them and outputs a three-dimensional image with the chemical structure of the tissues of this area.

In the case of using the CT technique, the examined part of the patient is exposed layer by layer to a beam of X-ray radiation, which is sent from a special apparatus. Due to the different densities of the fabric, the rays are absorbed differently, which is recorded by special devices. They process the received data and then produce a layer-by-layer image of tissue sections, that is, their physical state.

Which is better, MRI or CT?

Since the computed tomography method is based on X-rays, the patient is directly exposed to radiation during the examination, which is the main disadvantage of CT. New developments by designers have made it possible to reduce the radiation dose to a minimum, but the patient remains exposed to radiation. This cannot be called a plus.

Unlike CT, when diagnosing the body using MRI, the patient is not exposed to any radiation at all, which allows doctors to prescribe it even to pregnant women and children. This is the main difference between MRI and CT. Thanks to him, magnetic resonance imaging has become one of the safest research techniques. This is its absolute advantage.

In all other respects, MRI differs from CT only in the scope of application. After reading the information on the website prokishechnik.ru, you can easily understand that MRI is more preferable for focal and diffuse lesions of various parts of the brain, pathologies of the craniospinal junction and spinal cord, as well as for lesions of human cartilage tissue. CT, in turn, works best in diagnosing diseases of the abdomen, chest, base of the skull, pelvis, in identifying tumors, bleeding, etc. Also on the site “about the intestines” the main pros and cons of magnetic and computed tomography are described in more detail, so you can easily find out the answer to the age-old question “Which is better? MRI or CT?

MRI is more informative for

1. Inflammation of brain tissue, brain tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis;
2. Diseases of the spine and any lesions of the spinal cord;
3. Muscle tissue and articular surfaces;
4. Diagnosis of the contents of the pituitary gland, orbit and intracranial nerves;
5. Cancer research at different stages;

CT is more informative for

• Diagnosis of circulatory disorders, brain tumors;
• Lesions of the teeth, facial skeleton, thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as jaws;
• Injuries to the bones of the skull, brain and intracranial hematomas;
• Lesions of the temporal bones, paranasal sinuses and bones of the base of the skull;
• Diagnosis of otitis, sinusitis and pyramids of the temporal bones;
• For almost all pathologies in the abdomen;
• Atherosclerotic lesions of blood vessels and aneurysms;
• Research on tuberculosis, lung cancer, pneumonia and other chest pathologies;
• Diseases of the spine (disc herniation, osteoporosis, scoliosis, etc.);
• Observations on metal implants, damaged bones and their diseases.

Modern medicine is developed at a fairly high level. Today, there are a large number of diagnostic methods that make it possible to make an accurate diagnosis and identify pathologies at an early stage. Some of these techniques are CT and MRI. These are instrumental diagnostic methods that allow you to look “inside” the human body and identify all changes in bones, tissues and internal organs. Often these two methods are compared with each other. However, they differ significantly from each other. And if so, then it is worth considering these differences and determining which is better - MRI or CT?

MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a method of instrumental diagnostics of tissues and internal organs, carried out using nuclear magnetic resonance. The device allows you to obtain a high-quality image of the area of ​​the body under study and track all the changes that have occurred in it.

This diagnostic method was discovered in 1973. It is classified as a non-invasive examination method.

MRI is prescribed for:

• strokes;
• the need for examination of the pelvic organs;
• identifying diseases and pathologies of the circulatory system of the human body;
• examination of the trachea and esophagus.

MRI is contraindicated if the patient has:

• pacemaker or other electronic devices;
• metal implants in the area of ​​the object under study;
• ferromagnetic fragments;
• ferromagnetic Ilizarov apparatus.

Diagnosis cannot be carried out if the patient weighs more than 110 kg. This is due to the design features of the diagnostic apparatus. With large dimensions, a person simply will not fit inside the device and diagnostics will be impossible.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that metal objects distort the image, which may lead to an incorrect diagnosis. Therefore, before starting the procedure, you should remove jewelry and other metal accessories.

Magnetic resonance imaging may also be contraindicated in the following cases:

• with heart failure;
• inappropriate behavior of the patient and the presence of mental disorders;
• claustrophobia (in some cases, the doctor may give a sedative to calm the patient);
• in the first trimester of pregnancy;
• if you have tattoos, if the dye contains metal compounds (there is a risk of burns);
• taking nerve stimulants;
• in the presence of insulin pumps in the body.

The above restrictions are not always true. In vital cases, even if they are present, the doctor may prescribe an MRI to the patient.

What is CT

Computed tomography is a non-invasive method of modern instrumental diagnostics. During this procedure there is no contact with the surface of the patient's skin.

This method is based on the action of x-rays. It is carried out using a special apparatus, which, rotating around the human body, takes a series of sequential photographs. After this, the resulting images are processed on a computer to obtain detailed information and further interpretation by a doctor.

CT scan is prescribed if research is necessary:

• abdominal organs and kidneys;
• respiratory system;
• skeletal system.

In addition, a CT scan is most often ordered to determine the exact location of injuries.

CT is contraindicated in the following cases:

• during pregnancy (this diagnostic technique can have a negative impact on the development of the fetus);
• in the presence of gypsum in the area of ​​diagnostic studies;
• during lactation;
• if several similar studies have already been conducted recently;
• with renal failure.

Tomography is also contraindicated in young children under three years of age.

Main differences

In order to get a detailed picture of the difference between the two diagnostic research methods under consideration, it is better to familiarize yourself with the following table:

Which is better - MRI or CT

CLICK to enlarge

Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. There are a number of diseases for which both methods are equally suitable for diagnosing. In this case, the result obtained will be accurate and informative.

However, there are certain diseases and pathologies for the diagnosis of which one technique is used. For example, magnetic resonance imaging is prescribed if you need to study tissues, muscles, joints or the nervous system in detail. On the images obtained using a tomograph, it will be possible to detect pathologies even at an early stage of their development.

It is best to study the skeletal system of the human body using CT. The fact is that it reacts quite poorly to magnetic radiation. This is due to the insignificant content of hydrogen protons. If you conduct MRI studies, the accuracy of the result will be low.

Computed tomography is a good way to examine hollow organs. It is recommended to examine the stomach, lungs and intestines with its help.

In appearance, MRI and CT machines are quite similar. However, upon closer examination of their design and method of operation, many significant differences can be seen.

Which is more accurate: CT or MRI?

Both methods are highly informative. However, when studying certain pathologies and diseases, a specific diagnostic method can give a more accurate result.

MRI gives the most accurate results if you have:

• Malignant formations in the body.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Stroke.
• Pathologies of the spinal cord.
• Injury to tendons and muscles.

CT gives accurate results if:

• Injuries and internal hemorrhages.
• Diseases of the skeletal system.
• Pathologies of the respiratory system.
• Sinusitis and otitis.
• Atherosclerosis.
• Pathologies of the thyroid gland.
• Lesions of the facial skeleton.

CT and MRI: pros and cons

You can also determine which method is better by familiarizing yourself with their advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of magnetic resonance imaging:

1. High accuracy of images and informativeness of the method.
2. The best method for diagnosing various diseases and pathologies of the central nervous system.
3. It can be used to examine small children and pregnant women, as it is completely safe for their health.
4. Can be used at any frequency.
5. The MRI procedure does not cause any discomfort and is completely painless.
6. There is no negative impact of X-ray radiation on the body.
7. During the examination, the doctor receives a three-dimensional image of the organ being examined, which allows him to identify even the smallest changes in its structure and structure.
8. The method makes it possible to diagnose intervertebral hernia.
9. Can be done quite often.

Advantages of computed tomography:

1. Possibility of obtaining clear images of the skeletal system.
2. Obtaining a three-dimensional image of the object under study.
3. The comparative short duration of the diagnostic procedure.
4. Simplicity and high information content of the method.
5. Possibility of conducting an examination if the patient has metal implants and a pacemaker in the body.
6. Lower degree of radiation compared to our usual X-ray machine.
7. High accuracy of results in detecting malignant neoplasms and bleeding.
8. More favorable cost compared to magnetic resonance imaging.

Almost all modern instrumental diagnostic methods have both positive and negative sides. Methods of diagnostic studies using tomographs are no exception.

Disadvantages of MRI:

1. High cost.
2. The method is contraindicated if there are electronic devices and metal objects in the patient’s body.
3. Low information content of the method when studying the skeletal system.
4. Difficulty in conducting research on hollow organs.
5. Lengthy diagnostic procedure.
6. During the procedure, the patient must remain motionless for a long hour, which may cause some inconvenience.

Disadvantages of CT:

1. This technique provides information only about the structure of soft tissues and organs and does not show a complete picture of their functional state.
2. X-rays used for research can have harmful effects on the human body. Therefore, CT scanning is not recommended for young children and pregnant women.
3. This procedure should not be performed frequently, as there may be a risk of exposure to radiation and the development of radiation sickness.

It is worth noting that computed tomography is significantly cheaper than MRI, despite the fact that this diagnostic method is also highly accurate and informative.

What is better for examining the knee joint?

The most accurate method for examining the knee joint is computed tomography. It allows you to identify various pathologies in the knee area even at an early stage of their development. MRI does not provide a complete picture of all changes and pathologies in the structure of the joint.

The knee joint is one of the most complex joints in the human body. With any, even the most minor, violation, movement is limited, physical activity decreases and discomfort appears.

The computed tomography procedure includes an assessment of the structure:

• bone tissue;
• synovial membrane;
• cartilage tissue.

In addition, it allows you to identify growths and swelling in the joint.

What is better for studying the lungs and bronchi?

The best method for diagnosing pulmonary diseases is computed tomography. It allows you to obtain a three-dimensional image of the selected tissue section, which will be used for further research.

Using CT you can diagnose:

• tuberculosis;
• pneumonia;
• pleurisy;
• distant metastases;
• aneurysms;
• emphysema;
• lung cancer;
• other diseases and pathologies.

Diagnosis is carried out by an experienced radiologist. No additional preparation is required before the procedure.

Is it possible to do a CT and MRI on the same day?

Combining magnetic resonance imaging with CT on the same day is possible, if justified from a diagnostic point of view. However, this statement applies to methods without the use of a contrast agent. If contrast is used, no other diagnostic tests can be performed on this day. In this case, you need to take a break of at least 2 days.

Carrying out an MRI and CT scan on the same day will not cause any health consequences. These two methods are quite safe.

As can be seen from the above, CT and MRI are practically not inferior to each other in the information content and accuracy of the results obtained. Therefore, you should decide what to choose depending on the specific situation and circumstances. In addition, when choosing a diagnostic method, it is recommended to first consult with a doctor.

This was a breakthrough in medicine. This made it possible to see internal disorders in the human body and find out the state of its organs. But even such an excellent method carries with it some disadvantages. For example, an X-ray can take a picture of some organs, but at the same time images of other organs can be superimposed on them.

And in this case, only an experienced and knowledgeable doctor can decipher the result. Therefore, due to these shortcomings, progress has gone further.

New methods

Nowadays, there are other ways to diagnose human internal organs, such as CT or MRI. But then a lot of questions arise from this. For example, what diagnostics to choose, what is the difference between CT and MRI? Later in the article we will describe their differences in detail. We will also explain which diagnostics are more suitable for a particular case.

Let's understand the difference between CT and MRI

Now many doctors recommend that patients undergo more thorough examinations, using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, for better diagnosis. What kind of research is this? How does CT differ from MRI? Let's take a closer look:

• A CT scan is performed using the property of x-ray radiation to be absorbed differently by different tissue thicknesses. That is, CT is, in general, identical to x-rays, but the information obtained with its help is processed completely differently, and the radiation exposure is much higher.

• produced using a magnetic field. Hydrogen atoms, due to its influence, change their place, and the tomograph records this effect and processes it into a three-dimensional image.

As you can see, the question - how does CT differ from MRI, what is the difference between these two diagnostic devices - immediately receives an answer. The main difference is the nature of the waves. Magnetic resonance imaging uses electromagnetic waves. When they influence different organ tissues, various data are obtained that are read using the device. And then all the signals are processed and, as with a CT examination, an image is displayed on the monitor. Thanks to it, the doctor has the opportunity to see even layer-by-layer sections of organs. In addition, the image can be rotated and, if necessary, enlarged the desired area.

What other difference is there between CT and MRI? Which tomography is better? Each diagnosis is good and informative. The main difference lies in what pathology can be identified using these methods, and also, with the help of what rays this is done.

Scan time difference

Speaking about the difference between CT and MRI, it is worth noting that computed tomography (CT) has serious radiation exposure and therefore cannot be used frequently. But x-ray radiation affects organs for no more than 10 seconds. This means that such research is best carried out with those people who suffer from claustrophobia.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) usually lasts ten minutes or more, depending on the area of ​​study. At the same time, you need to remain motionless. Therefore, MRI is more suitable for people who do not have any serious mental disorders. As for children, when using a magnetic resonance examination, they are given anesthesia.

Based on the above, you can understand how MRI differs from CT. Which is better 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, when turning to their attending physician, ask the question of how CT differs from MRI. But since we have already found the answer to this, we will next talk about for which diseases it is best to use MRI and where to use CT.

MRI provides the most complete information when studying soft tissues. Therefore, it is prescribed in the following cases:

• if a person develops formations in muscle tissue, fat cells, in the abdomen and pelvis (this is done to get a complete picture after an ultrasound examination);
• for 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 intervertebral discs or the condition of joint tissues.

When is computed tomography used? She is prescribed:

• to study bone tissue in the area of ​​the spine and joints;
• when bone tissue is affected by tumor formations;
• when the bones of the skeleton have been traumatized;
• for pathologies in the organs of the abdominal cavity, pelvis, and lungs;
• with atherosclerotic changes in the vascular system.

Contraindications

Based on what was described above, the doctor will be able to choose the right type of diagnosis for each patient individually. But there are also some contraindications that should be taken into account.

These include the following:

1. CT scanning is not allowed during pregnancy.
2. MRI is not prescribed:

• in the presence of any metal parts implanted into the body;
• with electronic devices present in the tissues (for example, a pacemaker);
• those suffering from claustrophobia;
• if a person weighs more than 150 kg;
• patients with neurological disorders who are unable to remain in one position for a long time.

A little conclusion

The question of which of the two examinations is better to choose is asked by every person who is about to undergo diagnostics of internal organs. And in order not to harm your health and get as much useful information as possible, the patient should definitely ask his doctor what the difference is between CT and MRI. And the specialist will help you decide what is best for the patient in each specific case.