Currently, the main methods of radiation diagnostics are radiography, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which only at first glance are very similar in principle of action.

Many of the patients have a question: “What is the difference between CT and MRI, and what are their differences from radiography?”

All of the above methods allow you to quickly and painlessly visualize the organs and tissues of the area under study.

Nevertheless, there are a number of significant differences that can be decisive when choosing a particular research method. We will look at them in detail so that you can have complete information and can appreciate the benefits of each of them.

X-ray

The principle of operation of the X-ray machine is that X-rays, passing through the medium of different density of the investigated area, are weakened in different ways.

This forms an X-ray image – an image that displays all the structures of the area under study, layering them on top of each other.

In this case, the resulting image allows you to determine the shape, size and structure of the area under study, to identify or suspect structural abnormalities, and a study in two or more projections allows you to determine the localization of the identified changes. Most often, X-ray is used to examine bones, lungs, kidneys, and intestines.

CT scan

This is a more modern version of X-ray, which has retained its key features: the basis for obtaining an image is X-ray radiation, which, passing through the patient’s tissues, is absorbed and attenuated in different ways (based on their density).

However, an important difference lies in the fact that computed tomography is a collection of layer-by-layer X-ray images of a certain slice thickness, from which a volumetric projection is built, and not a plane, as on an X-ray. This (as well as high image quality) is one of the main advantages of computed tomography over the traditional X-ray research method.

Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI is based on the phenomenon of magnetic resonance, based on the re-emission of radio waves interacting with hydrogen atoms in excess of the human body.

These re-emitted electromagnetic waves are captured by the MRI scanner, amplified and appear as digital images on the monitor screen.

This is a harmless and absolutely safe method of radiation diagnostics for human health, since there is no X-ray radiation at the basis of image acquisition, therefore, an MRI scan can be performed an unlimited number of times, at any interval.

So which is better?

Radiography is the initial stage of diagnosis, which allows you to assess the overall condition of the area under study. CT and MRI are much more accurate diagnostic methods that continue to evolve.

Summing up, we can say that each of the three considered methods of radiation diagnostics (X-ray, CT and MRI) is effective in its own way, and the choice will depend on the objectives of the study.

All of the above types of research, performing certain tasks, complement each other and are actively used in the diagnosis of a wide range of diseases.

So, if your doctor has suggested you to undergo any of the above listed tests, the best option available for you is to turn to Niraamaya Diagnostics in Varanasi. This centre uses latest technology and has all the necessary equipment for conducting these tests efficiently.