X-Ray vs. CT Scan vs. MRI

What is the Difference Between a X-Ray and CT Scan and MRI?

When illness or a Florida car accident injury present the possibility of internal abnormalities, diagnostic imaging techniques allow doctors to ascertain the internal conditions from a visual standpoint. Imaging tests provide a noninvasive way to confirm or rule out specific diagnoses. The most common tests used are x-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs).

X-rays

X-rays, or radiographs, are the most commonly used diagnostic tool for cases involving pneumonia, chest injury, heart failure or suspected bone damage. X-rays emit electromagnetic waves which pass painlessly through the body to reflect off of photographic film positioned behind the body part needing evaluated. Depending on the density of the tissue, targeted areas of the body will absorb the radiation in varying degrees, and images on the film will appear in respective shades of light and dark.

Though not very detailed, certain diagnoses, such as bone fractures, can be assessed through x-rays. On the other hand, soft tissue may appear as pockets of air, thus failing to produce a clear and concise image for the purpose of diagnosis. Some conditions, such as small tumors or pulmonary embolisms, cannot usually be detected via x-rays. X-rays are often an initial test administered for injuries and are followed up with further testing for this reason.

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