How do CT scans differ from MRI scans?
A. CT and MRI images sometimes look very similar, but the equipment used to perform the scan is different. CT uses ionizing radiation just as with a routine X-Ray, while MRI uses a magnetic field. Depending on the clinical indications, one may be preferred over the other, or both may be desirable. CT scanners are faster and as a result, movement is not as problematic as with MRI scanner. Q. 3. What will I feel during the scan? A. CT scanning causes no pain, just as a routine X-Ray is painless. If intravenous contrast is used, you may feel warm and flush and get a metallic taste in your mouth and you may feel like you are wetting yourself. These sensations normally disappear after a few minutes. Contrast agents are used to image tissues and structures that are not normally seen or not seen very well. Intravenous contrast agents are used to enhance organs and visualize blood vessels. Oral contrast agents are used to visualize the digestive tract. Q. 4. Is it uncomfortable? Is it dangerou
CT and MRI images sometimes look very similar, but the equipment used to perform the scans is different. CT uses ionizing radiation just as with a routine X-ray, while MRI uses a magnetic field. Depending on the clinical indications, one may be preferred over the other, or both may be desirable. CT scanners are faster and as a result, claustrophobia and movement are not as problematic as with the MRI scanner.
