MRI or CT Scan?

[nogutsnoglory]

What's the difference between an MRI and CT Scan in terms of crohn's issues diagnosis. I have one doctor telling me to get an MRI and the other a CT Scan.

 

[Rebecca85]

MRI is generally more effective at seeing the different types of soft tissue, CT uses x rays which aren't so good. But contrast can be used so that the inside of the bowel shows up clearly on either ty of scan.

MRIs have no radiation, so are useful when patients need repeated scans.

MRIs cannot be used if the patient has metal in their body, as it uses an extremely stong magnetic field.

I think MRIs are newer, therefore less readily available (longer waiting times) and more expensive.

 

[moogie]

Just out of curiosity, in Canada , quebec to be more precise, if wither doctor ask for those I would just get both,. Of course I do not have to pay for anything. IS there some limitation in your case exacept for the radiation of course.

 

[nogutsnoglory]

CCFA's website says MRI's aren't very effective unless the disease is in the anus.

 

[Sailorluna]

I have had both. CT scans when in the ER and MRI when it was a planned thing. The MRI was specifically to look for rectal fistula.

It was funny reading the MRI results - they flagged several things they indicated should be looked at further (Enlarged Spleen and other things) and suggested various services they could provide at their imaging center. Clearly a sales job - very strange.