CT Scans Vs. MRIs: Differences, Benefits, And Risks - Healthline

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CT Scan vs. MRIMedically reviewed by J. Keith Fisher, M.D. — Written by Tessa Sawyers — Updated on March 31, 2023

MRI
CT scan
CT scan vs. MRI
Choosing between scans
Takeaway

CT scans and MRIs both capture images within your body. CT scans provide pictures of tissues, organs, and skeletal structure while MRIs are more detailed and can show abnormal tissue.

The biggest difference is that MRIs (magnetic resonance imaging) use radio waves and CT (computed tomography) scans use X-rays.

While both are relatively low risk, there are differences that may make each one a better option depending on the circumstances.

What are MRIs?

Using radio waves and magnets, MRIs are used to view objects inside your body.

They’re frequently used to diagnose issues with your:

joints
brain
wrists
ankles
breasts
heart
blood vessels

A constant magnetic field and radio frequencies bounce off of the fat and water molecules in your body. Radio waves are transmitted to a receiver in the machine which is translated into an image of the body that can be used to diagnose issues.

An MRI is a loud machine. Typically, you’ll be offered earplugs or headphones to make the noise more bearable.

You’ll also be asked to lie still while the MRI is taking place.

What are CT scans?

A CT scan is a form of X-raying that involves a large X-ray machine. CT scans are sometimes called CAT scans.

A CT scan is typically used for:

bone fractures
tumors
cancer monitoring
finding internal bleeding

During a CT scan, you’ll be asked to lie down on a table. The table then moves through the CT scan to take cross-sectional pictures inside your body.

CT scan vs. MRI

CT scans are more widely used than MRIs and are typically less expensive.

MRIs, however, are thought to be superior in regards to the detail of the image. The most notable difference is that CT scans use X-rays while MRIs do not.

Other differences between MRI and CT scans include their risks and benefits:

Risks

Both CT scans and MRIs pose some risks when used. The risks are based on the type of imaging as well as how the imaging is performed.

CT scan risks include:

harm to unborn babies
variable dose of ionizing radiation based on specific scan performed
a potential reaction to the use of dyes

MRI risks include:

possible reactions to metals due to magnets
loud noises from the machine causing hearing issues
increase in body temperature during long MRIs
claustrophobia

You should consult a doctor prior to an MRI if you have implants including:

artificial joints
eye implants
an IUD
a pacemaker

Benefits

Both MRIs and CT scans can view internal body structures. However, a CT scan is faster and can provide pictures of tissues, organs, and skeletal structure.

An MRI is highly adept at capturing images that help doctors determine if there are abnormal tissues within the body. MRIs are more detailed in their images.

Choosing between an MRI and CT scan

Most likely, your doctor will give you a recommendation based on your symptoms whether you should get an MRI or CT scan.

If you need a more detailed image of your soft tissue, ligaments, or organs, your doctor will commonly suggest an MRI.

Such cases include:

herniated disks
torn ligaments
soft tissue issues

If you need a general image of an area like your internal organs, or due to a fracture or head trauma, a CT scan will commonly be recommended.

Takeaway

Both CT scans and MRI scans are relatively low risk. Both offer important information to help your doctor properly diagnose specific conditions.

Most likely, your doctor will tell you which one they recommend. Be sure to ask questions and discuss any concerns with your doctor, so you can be comfortable with the choice they recommend.

How we reviewed this article:

SourcesHistoryHealthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We only use quality, credible sources to ensure content accuracy and integrity. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

Benefits and risks. (2017).https://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/RadiationEmittingProductsandProcedures/MedicalImaging/MRI/ucm482765.htm
CT scans. (2018).https://medlineplus.gov/ctscans.html
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). (n.d.).https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/magnetic-resonance-imaging-mri
MRI scans. (2018).https://medlineplus.gov/mriscans.html

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Medically reviewed by J. Keith Fisher, M.D. — Written by Tessa Sawyers — Updated on March 31, 2023

CT Scans Vs. MRIs: Differences, Benefits, And Risks - Healthline

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What are MRIs?

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CT scan vs. MRI

Risks

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Choosing between an MRI and CT scan

Takeaway

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