Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging: What You Need to Know

Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are modern medical imaging methods that provide volumetric images of the examined organs. The main difference between them lies in their operating principles.

CT, or computed tomography, uses X-ray radiation to investigate the body's tissues.

MRI, on the other hand, employs pulsating magnetic fields and radio frequencies to obtain images.

CT provides information about the physical condition of organs, while MRI focuses on the chemical structure of tissues.

Both methods allow doctors to obtain clear images of internal organs, which helps identify their structure and possible hidden pathologies. These technologies are widely used in medicine for diagnosing numerous diseases.

It is important to note that CT uses X-ray radiation, which can pose health risks, whereas MRI is safe, even for pregnant women. However, the cost of MRI is significantly higher than that of CT, so it is advisable to discuss all the pros and cons of the diagnostic method with your attending physician before making a decision.

When Should You Do a CT?

CT is best suited for diagnosing diseases of the skull, chest, pelvis, and abdomen. This method may be indicated in the following conditions:

- diseases of the spine, osteoporosis, herniated discs

- epilepsy

- oncological diseases

- tuberculosis and pneumonia

- aneurysms and atherosclerosis of the vessels

- injuries or suspicions of injuries

- congenital anomalies of organs

- various organ pathologies

- inflammatory processes

- acute intracranial hematomas, brain and skull injuries

- brain tumors

- disorders of cerebral circulation

- lesions of the base of the skull, temporal bones, facial skeleton, jaws, paranasal sinuses, teeth, thyroid and parathyroid glands

- sinusitis and otitis

Who Should Not Have a CT?

CT is contraindicated for pregnant women and young children. Patients with kidney failure are also at risk. Claustrophobia is a serious contraindication for performing CT. Furthermore, CT should not be performed on individuals with casts or metal implants in the examination area.

When Should You Do an MRI?

MRI provides more accurate data in cases of cartilage tissue pathologies, spinal cord, and craniospinal junction, as well as focal and diffuse lesions of the brain. This method is recommended for diagnosing:

- stroke

- cancer

- brain tumors

- inflammatory brain tissue

- pituitary diseases

- orbital pathologies

- lesions of the internal cranial nerves

- diseases of the spinal cord and spine

- joint, ligament, and muscle tissue diseases

Contraindications for MRI

MRI is not recommended for patients with pacemakers, ferromagnetic or electronic middle ear implants, as well as other metal implants. Relative contraindications include the presence of nerve stimulators, insulin pumps, non-ferromagnetic inner ear implants, clips for stopping bleeding (excluding cerebral vessels), and prosthetic heart valves (in high fields and suspected dysfunction).

MRI is also not recommended in cases of decompensated heart failure, claustrophobia, and severe physical conditions. During the first trimester of pregnancy, it is also advisable to avoid MRI.

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