What You Should Know About MRI And CAT Scans
At Ronald W. Ramirez, Attorney at Law, we pride ourselves on being vital resources for our clients dealing with traumatic brain injuries. We focus on educating them on all aspects of their case and give them peace of mind that they have an advocate at their side exploring all options. Because of the importance of medical records in a brain injury case, one of the more significant issues our clients face involves the strengths and weaknesses of CT scans and MRIs.
The Differences Between MRIs And CAT Scans
CT scanners became commercially viable in 1971. Ten years later, the first commercial MRI revealed a significant increase in resolution and choice of imaging sequences. Other important differences include:
Computerized (Axial) Tomography Scans (CAT)
- Best source for cancer detection, lung/chest imaging and bone injuries
- Less expensive than an MRI
- Scan time takes about 30 seconds with the entire procedure taking around five minutes
- Involve a small amount of radiation exposure
- The procedure is not recommended for pregnant women unless absolutely necessary
- Noninvasive and painless, but still expose patients to radiation
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- A better instrument for soft tissue evaluation such as ligament/tendon injuries, possible spinal cord damage and brain tumors
- Sometimes costs twice as much as a CT scan
- Less sensitive to patient movement than CT scans
- Does not emit any ionizing radiation
- While not providing any known biological hazards, can still affect someone allergic to the contrast dye or those suffering from kidney or liver disorders
Call Us To Schedule Your Free Case Evaluation Today
Our firm has been helping those suffering from head trauma and brain injuries for more than 35 years. Forest Hills and Queens residents can contact personal injury lawyer Ronald W. Ramirez, Attorney at Law at 917-300-0778 or fill out our online intake form.