MRI vs CT - Which Is Right For You?

Is it time for you to invest in medical imaging equipment? The first decision you have to make is whether an MRI or CT fits your needs. The experts at Atlantis Worldwide put together this hand guide that will help you with that decision.

A Closer Look At MRI

An MRI uses magnetic fields and radio frequency pulses to take pictures of internal organs. It’s ideal for soft tissue examination including the spinal column, tendons and ligaments. It’s also perfect for diagnosing brain tumors. MRI imaging provides much more detail than X-rays. The process is painless, non-invasive and there’s no risk of radiation. However, some patients can get claustrophobic, especially since scan times take longer than CT Scans. Some people are allergic to contrast dyes used, as well. There’s a 350-lb weight limit for patients and they can’t have metal or cardiac implants. An MRI is much more expensive than a CT.

CT Scanners

A CT Scanner takes a series of X-ray slices that are used to produce a 3D image. It is best for diagnosing muscle or bone disorders, soft tissues, examining tumors and diagnosing issues with the lungs and chest. It provides much more detail than an X-ray. A CT Scanner is also ideal for taking a closer look at internal damage from accidents, which is why you’ll find them in emergency rooms. Usually a intravenous contrast is used which rarely causes allergic reactions. A CT Scan takes only five minutes and is painless and non-invasive. However, there is radiation risk, but about the same amount of radiation received from background radiation over a 3-5 year period. The weight limit is higher at 450 pounds and metal implants are ok. The machine itself is open so patients won’t feel claustrophobic. A CT Scan is much less expensive than an MRI.

Uses for CT vs MRI

• Abdominal Pain- CT is preferred test
• Trauma- CT is in most emergency wings and is best with bone fractures and organ injuries
• Spine- MRI is suited for nerves and spinal cord
• Joints- MRI is better for tendons and ligaments
• Brain- MRI is better for looking at detailed images, neurological diseases, or where bone is interfering. CT is best when speed is priority as in trauma and stroke.
• Chest - CT is best for lungs tissue and abnormal chest x-rays. 

Once you’ve decided whether a CT Scanner or MRI is right for your practice, clinic, hospital or medical facility, the next decision is whether you need to buy a brand new one or if a refurbished or used one will do the trick. There are many used and certified preowned medical imaging devices available, and most come with a performance and service warranty. To determine which is best for you, talk to an expert at Atlantis Worldwide. We’ve been providing high quality used and preowned medical imaging equipment for more than three decades and are happy to help you with your decision.  Contact Us Today!

Some blogs you may have missed:

• Looking to purchase a CT? Answer these Six Questions First!
• Free MRI Resources
• MRI Gradient Coils: 101
• 8 Tips for upgrading your MRI, CT and PET/CT
• Free CT Resources 

Meet the author: Vikki Harmonay