If your doctor orders diagnostic imaging, you may wonder why one type of test is being recommended instead of another.
X-rays, CT scans, MRI and ultrasound all allow healthcare professionals to look inside the body, but they work differently and provide different types of information.
Here's a simple breakdown.
What Is an X-Ray?
X-rays are one of the most familiar forms of medical imaging.
They are commonly used to evaluate bones and can help physicians identify fractures and other conditions. X-rays may also be used to examine certain areas of the chest and body depending on the medical concern.
The test itself is generally quick, making X-ray imaging useful in many hospital and emergency situations.
What Is a CT Scan?
A CT, or computed tomography, scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
CT imaging can provide considerably more detail than a traditional X-ray and may be used to examine areas such as the:
- Brain
- Chest
- Abdomen
- Internal organs
- Bones
- Blood vessels
In an emergency setting, physicians may use CT imaging when they need detailed information about an injury or sudden medical symptoms.
What Is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce highly detailed images.
MRI can be particularly useful for examining soft tissues and certain structures within the body, including the brain, spine, joints, muscles, and other areas.
Unlike traditional X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation.
What Is an Ultrasound?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images from inside the body.
Many people associate ultrasound with pregnancy, but it has numerous other medical applications. Physicians can use ultrasound to evaluate organs, tissues, blood flow, and other medical concerns.
Why Would My Doctor Choose One Imaging Test Over Another?
There isn't one imaging test that's best for every situation.
The appropriate test depends on factors such as:
- Your symptoms
- The area of the body being examined
- Your medical history
- What the physician is looking for
- How quickly information is needed
Sometimes more than one type of imaging may be necessary to fully evaluate a condition.
Why Diagnostic Imaging Matters in Emergency Care
When someone arrives at an emergency room with sudden neurological symptoms, significant pain, or an injury, physicians can't always determine what is happening through a physical examination alone.
Diagnostic imaging allows the medical team to obtain additional information from inside the body and can play an important role in determining the next steps in a patient's care.
White Rock Medical Center provides radiology and diagnostic imaging services in East Dallas, supporting patients and physicians with important diagnostic resources close to home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a CT scan the same as an MRI?
No. They use different technologies and provide different types of images.
Does an MRI use radiation?
MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves rather than ionizing radiation.
Why would an ER order a CT scan?
A physician may order CT imaging when detailed internal images are needed to evaluate certain injuries or symptoms.
Where can I find diagnostic imaging in East Dallas?
White Rock Medical Center provides diagnostic imaging and radiology services for the East Dallas community.