Imaging tests involve state-of-the-art equipment to generate high-quality images of the inside of a patient’s body.
Three of the most well-known imaging tests are PET scans, CT scans, and MRIs. Consider the below a primer on the differences between these diagnostic exams.
What Is a PET Scan?
Positron emission tomography (PET) scans use a special dye that contains radioactive tracers to identify how well your organs and other tissue inside your body are functioning. These radioactive tracers are swallowed, inhaled, or injected into the veins, and a scan detects the activity of the tracers once inside the body. The tracers collect in areas of the body with high chemical activity, which is typically a sign of disease such as cancer. The tracers are also used to measure blood flow, oxygen use, sugar levels, and the like.
PET scans are typically used in conjunction with a CT scan or MRI.
What Is a CT Scan?
Computed tomography (CT) scans, on the other hand, works much like an X-ray, only with greater, 3D detail of the organs, bones, and tissues inside your body.
During the scan, a narrow x-ray beam circles your body, taking a series of images from different angles. These images are stored in a computer that can, in turn, create a cross-sectional view of the body part under examination.
These images are used to detect bone and joint problems, critical conditions like cancer and heart disease, and evidence of internal bleeding, tumors, or blood clots. It may also use a contrast dye for even better clarity on the resulting images.
What Is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also takes detailed pictures of internal organs – but instead of using X-ray technology, an MRI uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and computer technology to create its images. It may be used with or without a contrast dye to see internal structures more clearly.
During the MRI, you lay within a tube-like machine that produces a strong magnetic field to create its images, which are processed and stored in a computer. There is no radiation used during an MRI.
Which Imaging Test Do You Need?
The test your doctor recommends for you will depend on your specific needs. Each of the three are safe but have different advantages.
Diagnostic Imaging in South Florida
The experts at Independent Imaging include highly qualified radiologists and certified radiology technicians in Palm Beach County. Our imaging centers are all duly accredited by the American College of Radiology. We are here to provide safe, low-dose, and tailor-fit imaging procedures for your health care needs.
If you need to undergo an imaging test, feel free to call us today to schedule an appointment at (561) 795-5558 or use our appointment request form now. We are looking forward to helping you.
