Discover published sets by community

CT Scan uses X-rays while MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves.

CT Scan is typically used for bone injuries, lung and chest imaging, and cancer detection. MRI is preferred for soft tissue evaluation like brain, muscles, and ligaments.

CT Scan involves exposure to ionizing radiation, MRI does not.

CT Scans are generally faster, taking minutes, whereas MRI can take up to an hour or more.

CT Scans are usually less expensive than MRI scans.

CT Scans are relatively quiet, while MRI machines make loud buzzing and knocking sounds.

MRI provides greater detail of soft tissues compared to CT.

MRI machines can induce claustrophobia due to the enclosed space and length of the procedure, while CT scanners are generally open and quicker.

Both CT and MRI use contrast agents, but the chemical compositions differ due to the imaging technology.

MRI can be problematic with metal implants, while CT is generally safe unless they cause artifact.

CT is superior to MRI in detecting calcifications.

CT usually requires less preparation compared to MRI, which may require fasting and avoiding caffeine or nicotine.

CT allows for real-time imaging, useful in interventional procedures. MRI does not offer this due to longer scan times.

MRI is generally safer for patients with kidney problems, as gadolinium-based contrasts are less likely to cause nephrogenic systemic fibrosis than iodine-based CT contrasts.

CT scans are highly sensitive to acute hemorrhages, particularly in the brain.

MRI has superior fat and water differentiation compared to CT.

MRI is capable of functional imaging (fMRI), which CT cannot provide.

MRI is generally considered safer for pregnant women, particularly after the first trimester, compared to CT.

CT scans can capture images much quicker than MRI scans.