CT Scan vs MRI

CT (Computed (Axial) Tomography)

CT Scans Suited for bone injuries, Lung and Chest imaging, cancer detection. Widely used in Emergency Room patient. Uses X-rays for imaging, so small amounts of radiation are emitted A major advantage of CT is that it is able to image bone, soft tissue and blood vessels all at the same time.

CT Scans CT Scan costs range from $1,200 to $3,200; they usually cost less than MRIs (about half the price of MRI). A major advantage of CT is that it is able to image bone, soft tissue and blood vessels all at the same time. Usually completed within 5 minutes. Actual scan time usually less than 30 seconds. Therefore, CT is less sensitive to patient movement than MRI.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI Suited for Soft tissue evaluation, e.g. ligament and tendon injury, spinal cord injury, brain tumors Makes use of the fact that body tissue contains lots of water (and hence protons) which gets aligned to large magnetic field

MRI MRI costs range from $1200 to $4000 (with contrast); which is usually more than CT scans and X-rays, and most examining methods. Much higher soft tissue detail as compare to CT scan. Scanning typically run for about 30 minutes. No biological hazards have been reported with the use of the MRI. MRI is more versatile than the X-Ray and is used to examine a large variety of medical conditions.