![]() There are “open” MRI machines that can help, but these machines can sometimes compromise image quality. MRI tests can be difficult for people who are claustrophobic. It also takes more time for radiologists to read these detailed images. This is due to the more expensive costs of equipment. ![]() They are much more costly than CT scans and other imaging tests. Gadolinium contrast is less likely to cause allergic reactions or kidney injury. This can make the test better for people who should limit radiation exposure, like pregnant mothers, or cancer patients who receive multiple imaging tests. Some examples include small strokes in the brain, early signs of infection in an organ, nerve inflammation, or narrowed blood vessels. Some examples include muscle, tendon, cartilage, nerves, and blood vessels.ĭetects tiny abnormalities that can be missed on a CT scan. Provides detailed images of certain parts of the body. ![]() The patient lies on a table inside the tube as the magnets do their work. The name of the contrast is gadolinium, and it can be given by mouth or through an IV.Īn MRI machine looks like a long tube. Like CT scans, MRIs with contrast can create even greater detail. They produce detailed images that are then reconstructed into a 3D picture.Īn MRI can show delicate tissues such as muscle, blood vessels, and nerves. The machine uses magnets to produce energy waves that pass through the body. Adequate kidney function is needed to get the contrast out of the body, or the contrast can damage the kidneys.Īn MRI is one of the most detailed imaging tests available. This includes people who are allergic to it and those who have kidney disease. Some people cannot safely receive the contrast. Sometimes provides less-detailed images than an MRI. This puts some stress on the body’s cells and can increase the risk that a cell will become cancerous. Uses radiation waves - meaning that frequent CT scans can expose you to high levels of radiation over time. More tolerable for people who get claustrophobic, or people who cannot sit still for long periods of time. Quicker than MRI - making them particularly helpful in emergency situations. Provides detailed images of bones and solid organs like the liver, spleen, or brain.ĭetects things like tumors, abnormal bleeding, inflammation, and infection in most organs. The patient lies on a table that moves through the center of the donut while pictures are taken. These are just two examples of the many ways that contrast can provide more detailed images.Ī CT scan machine has the appearance of a donut. When given by mouth, it lights up the stomach and intestines. When the contrast is given through an IV, it lights up the blood vessels. ![]() This lights up certain parts of the image so that it is easier to see. To get more detail, sometimes an iodine-based contrast is given by mouth or an IV. It is less effective for softer or hollow parts of the body like muscle or intestine. CT scans give detailed information about dense structures in the body, such as bone, or solid organs like the liver or spleen. A computer can then reconstruct these images into a three-dimensional (3D) image of any part of the body. What is a CT scan?Ī CT scan is a special type of X-ray that takes thousands of tiny pictures of the body from all different angles. We’ll explain in more detail how these tests work and the advantages specific to each one. This means one is usually better than the other depending on the symptoms or suspected diagnosis. CT scans use radiation waves (like an X-ray), and MRIs use magnetic waves. But it can be hard to know which test is best for you.ĬT scans and MRIs use different types of energy waves to create a picture of the inside of our bodies. Computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) are both helpful tests to see inside our bodies. When you sense that something in your body is feeling different, there are many ways to take a closer look. Sometimes, you have a symptom or condition that cannot be seen on the surface. ![]()
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