CT and MRI: How modern imaging investigations are changing the standard of care | Photo source – Medicover
Two to three decades ago, Computer Tomography (CT) was a less accessible investigation. Today, modern medicine relies on technological developments to speed up the diagnostic process. High-precision imaging investigations, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography, allow the interior of the human body to be examined with unprecedented clarity. MRI has become much better at visualizing soft tissues, often eliminating the need for exploratory interventions to “see” what's inside.
Precision eliminates uncertainty
Starting in 2025, MRI investigations with integrated Artificial Intelligence (AI) are available in Medicover. AI helps to obtain even sharper and more detailed images, and the scan time for the patient is reduced by approximately 30%. For patients, top equipment performance means:
- quick interventions and optimal therapeutic solutions
- reducing the stress associated with waiting for a diagnosis
- the chance to receive treatment before the disease progresses.
CT or MRI?
Fractures and traumas after road accidents, internal bleeding, conditions in the neurosurgical area, ENT, pulmonary, oncological diseases – colorectal, renal tumors, non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphomas (LMNH), Hodgkin's lymphoma, multiple myeloma (a form of bone marrow cancer) are frequently detected/assessed with the help of CT.
Frequently detected with the help of MRI are multiple sclerosis, inner ear disorders, neuro-ophthalmological disorders, pituitary disorders, spinal disorders, gynecological pathologies, liver diseases and many others. The decision to indicate a CT or an MRI is made exclusively by the doctor.
Radiation dose
Computer Tomography reproduces detailed images of the inside of the body using a low dose of radiation (X-rays) and computer technology.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance, also known as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), reproduces detailed images of the inside of the body using a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer, without exposure to X-ray radiation.
What is the validity of a CT or MRI?
There is no “expiry date” on the CT/MRI exam. Depending on the pathology, the patient may be recommended to repeat the examination more frequently or in a specific time interval.
At what time intervals can a CT be performed?
The number of CT scans and the interval at which they can be performed depend on the patient's medical condition. The decision is made by the attending physician who follows the patient, together with the radiologist.
The advantages of CT
MRI does not involve the use of X-rays, so patients often wonder what the advantages of CT are and why the doctor would recommend a CT instead of an MRI scan.
MRI investigation can take 4–6 times longer than CT investigation. For example, a contrast-enhanced CT scan takes 3–5 minutes, and a contrast-enhanced MRI scan takes about 30 minutes.
Also, some MRI equipment is much more sensitive to patient movements, thus causing movement artifacts, which affects image quality and examination results. In this regard, Medicover clinics have been equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, specially equipped with software to mitigate the patient's movements during the scan.
At the same time, patients with metal implants incompatible with MRI or those with pacemakers/pacemakers cannot undergo MRI. For them, performing a CT is an advantage.
The technological evolution, marked by the integration of AI in Medicover protocols, is radically transforming the patient experience. Beyond state-of-the-art equipment, the combination of technology and medical expertise remains essential. Regardless of whether it is CT or MRI, the goal remains the same: accurate diagnosis, obtained in the shortest possible time, for a treatment started at the right time.
Article sponsored by Medicover
