Differences Between Cat Scans & an MRI

CAT scanner

On the surface, MRI and CAT scanners look the same, but they use different technologies to create internal images of the human body. MRI scanners require the patient to spend up to 45 minutes inside an enclosed space while CAT scans take a mere 5 minutes to complete.

Identification

MRI Scanner

CAT scans use X-ray radiation to generate 360-degree image slices of the specific part of the human body placed inside the machine. MRI uses magnetic and radio waves to generate an internal picture of the human body.

Function

CAT scans are ideal for taking images of bone tissue, where MRI scans are ideal for taking images of soft tissue.

Visual Differences

CAT scanners are, thin, square devices with a hole in the center, where MRI scanners are tubular with a hole in the center.

Cost

CAT scans cost from $1,200 to $3,200 where MRI scans cost from $1,200 to $4,000, depending on where the scan occurs. As a general rule, CAT scans are cheaper than MRI scans.

Warnings

CAT scans expose your body to radiation, which can cause radiation-related side effects. MRI machines exposes your body to a powerful magnet, which can interfere with pacemakers, cardiac monitors, surgical clips and those who are claustrophobic.

References

• The Difference Between MRI and CT Scans
• MRI vs. CT Scan
• CT Scan vs MRI