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Magnetic resonance imaging, Computed Axial Tomography (CT) or Positron Emission Tomography (PET) are three neuroimaging tests that allow us to obtain 3D brain images and high resolution. Neurologists can request them to confirm a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and rule out other causes that may be behind cognitive disorders such as memory loss.

When we talk about these tests, the image that comes to mind is that of diagnostic testing which we have to be completely still, lying down and with our heads inside a donut-shaped device. Although the machine and a part of the procedure are similar, the three tests are different and offer us different information.

Here are the most significant differences between them:

Magnetic resonance

It works with a magnet. To get an idea of ​​its power, a 3 Tesla magnetic resonance is equipped with a magnetic field 60,000 times more powerful than Earth's. This magnetic field is combined with radio pulses to detect the magnetic characteristics of the body's hydrogen atoms, and thus be able to send the computer the information necessary to reproduce the brain image.

Provides comprehensive information of soft tissues. It is one of the most used techniques in research since it allows to obtain high-resolution images, with detail of up to 0.4 millimeters, in the case for example, of resonance of 3 Teslas.

It is harmless, does not produce ionizing radiation. Therefore, and due to the magnetic field, it is only contraindicated in people who have a pacemaker or metal implants.

The test usually lasts more than 30 minutes. The person inside the machine must be still during the entire acquisition.

It is a very noisy test. The sound comes from the vibration of the gradient coils, produced by the alternative passage of the current needed to scan.

CT

It works with an x-ray beam. The scanner allows obtaining multiple images, taken from different angles, from the absorption made by the different tissues to X-rays.

It offers bone, soft tissue, and air images. Its resolution in soft tissues is lower than that of magnetic resonance.

It emits small ionizing radiation. The risk of developing cancer due to radiation is negligible. However, it is not recommended to repeat the test excessively and its use is only prescribed in children when it is strictly necessary. Nor is it recommended for pregnant women, because of the risk that it may affect the foetus.

Some tests can be done in just 10 minutes. The person inside the machine must also be still during the entire acquisition. It is suggested to know the CT scan price in Delhi first, before having a CT scan.

Brain PET

It works with a radioactive tracer that is administered intravenously before testing. To take the images, the PET machine also incorporates a CT scan or an MRI.

Provides information about biological processes. Thanks to the contrast substances contained in the tracer, it allows obtaining high definition images to assess aspects such as, for example, the consumption of glucose in the brain, which indicates the activity of different areas or to detect the characteristic amyloid protein deposits of Alzheimer's disease.

It also uses ionizing radiation. Therefore, the best CT scan in Delhi is not recommended for pregnant women.

It is impossible to imagine modern diagnostics without such imaging methods as computed (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). But many patients do not know how CT differs from MRI, and sometimes mistakenly believe that the difference is only in price.

Medical Diagnostics: CT or MRI? Specialist explains

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That is, if the MRI is more expensive, then it is more informative. In fact, two of these studies are based on various physical processes. Based on this, each of them is good at the study of certain pathologies.

So, in computed tomography, as well as in a conventional X-ray examination, the property of X-ray radiation is absorbed, depending on the density of body tissues. Just CT is a multilayer x-ray, and it gives the opportunity to three-dimensional research. It is suggested to first know the CT scan cost Delhi.

In MRI, a powerful magnetic field (nuclear magnetic resonance) is used. The tomography sends electromagnetic pulses, and the effect that occurs in the body is captured by the equipment and processed into three-dimensional images.

In what cases is CT diagnostics used, and in which cases an MRI scan is necessary?

The tumours of the brain and spinal cord, soft tissues are better visualized with MRI, however, in order to detect if there are metastases, CT. Computed tomography is also necessary for examining the skeletal system of the body and for identifying any pathologies of the lungs.

Everything else depends on the pathology. For example, degenerative pathologies of the brain, diseases of the spinal cord - these are MRI. Aneurysms of the arteries of the brain- CT angiography needs to be done to plan the operation further. The heart, coronary vessels are also examined using CT. Diffuse pathologies of the heart, myocarditis, cardiomyopathy, etc. Already need to be examined with an MRI.

The tumours of the pelvic organs are mainly examined using MRI, but to detect the prevalence of the process, CT should be done- it is faster, cheaper and more informative. A CT scan with intravenous contrast is done. At high speed, contrast is introduced, it stains all the organs and structures that interest us, and makes it possible to differentiate different diseases.

In general, CT is a diagnostic method for studying very many pathologies, starting from the head, ending with the lower extremities. This can be either an urgent study – poly-trauma, dissection or rupture of aortic aneurysms, or planned: for cancer, when multiple organ studies are done to get all the information about metastasis, about dynamic changes after chemotherapy courses to plan further treatment. CT is also used for postoperative dynamic monitoring.

Cardiac surgery and invasive cardiology also cannot do without CT: a screening study of the coronary vessels of the heart is done to detect stenosis and dissection and other aortic diseases. CT, according to the specialist, is also used in bowel examination. Today contrast diagnostic test is done with filling the intestines with X-ray negative contrast for the study of all layers of the intestine.

A CT scan in best CT scan centre in Delhi is carried out for children from the first birthdays about heart defects, as well as intrauterine and birth injuries, congenital diseases. There is close cooperation with paediatric cardiac and neurosurgery.

X-ray exam is used to determine if there are lung nodules. Then you have to determine if they are malignant.

The computed tomography of the thorax (CT scan chest cost in Delhi) is a method of imaging by X-rays, which is commonly used for the diagnosis of lung diseases and is the only proven to reduce the number of deaths per test lung cancer, associated with early detection of the disease. The chest CT is indicated in all patients in which a pulmonary pathology is being studied. In recent years, it has also been shown to be effective as a screening method in lung cancer, similar to mammography for breast cancer screening.

It is not an annoying examination and practically does not have risks, except those related to the minimum radiation exposure. The CT, basically takes many pictures of the inside of the body using x-rays, allows to examine in a few minutes the entire thoracic cavity, so, including the necessary preparation, takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

According to the specialist, it is recommended as a lung cancer screening to perform a normal initial chest CT scan and subsequently a low-contrast, no-dose chest CT scan in the follow-up studies.

Tests and studies to detect lung cancer

If your doctor thinks you might have lung cancer based on the results of a screening test or because of the symptoms you have, other tests and tests will be done to confirm the suspicion.

Medical history and physical examination

Your doctor will ask about your medical history to learn more about any symptoms you have and possible risk factors. You will also be tested for signs of lung cancer or other health problems.

If the results of the history and physical examination suggest that you may have lung cancer, more tests will be done.

Tests to detect lung cancer

Sputum cytology

For this test, a sample of mucus that coughs from the lungs (sputum) is examined under a microscope to determine if it contains cancer cells. The best way to do sputum cytology is to obtain the samples early in the morning for three consecutive days.

Chest x-ray

If you have symptoms that can cause lung cancer, the chest x-ray will often be the first study that the doctor will order. Simple chest x-rays can be done in imaging centers, hospitals, and even in some doctors' offices. If something looks suspicious, your doctor may order other tests.

Computed tomography

A CT (CT scan chest cost in Delhi) uses X- rays to produce detailed cross- sectional images of the body. Instead of taking a picture, like conventional radiography, CT scans take many pictures while a device rotates around you while you lie on a stretcher. Then, a computer combines these photographs to form cross sectional images of the part of the body being studied.

Lung tumors are more likely to be detected on computed tomography (CT) than on conventional chest radiographs. CT scans can also show the size, shape, and position of any tumor in the lung, and can help find enlarged lymph nodes that may contain cancer that has spread from the lung.

CT scan Cost Delhi depends upon the part and area of the body and numbers of pictures to be taken. Using CT scan you can diagnose many health problems such as:

·       Pain in abdomen

·       Kidney stones

·       Internal Injuries

·       Infections, blood clots

·       Heart, blood vessels, lungs disorders

·       Urinary tract, bladder, kidney, blockages etc

·       Prostate

·       Bones, joints for ex-wrist, knee, ankle, shoulders etc.

Let’s have a glimpse of some of the most common CT scans.

Mostly CT scan can be performed to detect the injury or disease in the brain. It is also used widely conducted to the abdomen which is known as an abdominal CT scan. A few other CT scans are:

·       CT scan of spleen

·       CT scan of an adrenal gland

·       CT scan of gallbladder and bile duct

·       Used to diagnose tumors in the pancreas

·       Used to diagnose cysts, inflammatory bowel, lung cancer

·       Used to detect bone density, bone disease and spinal disorders

CT scan can successfully diagnose almost every part of your body which is not possible in an ultrasound test that is used to diagnose blood flow and soft body tissues.

Do you know how CT scan diagnoses your body?

Moving X-rays are used in CT scan to examine different parts of your body. The machine produces several images by using x rays by creating a cross-sectional view of slices of body parts such as bones, soft tissues etc. A rotating tube sends X rays into a patient's body during CT scan at CT scan centre. CT scan uses several beams instead of a single beam as in X-ray machine. The moving X-rays create a picture which records on computer. It gives a more concise and detailed view that helps to detect injuries, bleeding and critical illness.

How do you prepare yourself for CT scan test?

It depends on which part of your body is going to be scanned at CT scan centre. Different preparations are needed for different organs.

·       You may be asked to take off your clothes or wear a medical gown provided by test lab if you are required to go for chest CT scan or abdominal CT scan.

·       You are requested to remove all kind of metals wearing on your body like the watch, jewelry, electronic devices and eyeglasses to prevent interface with x-rays.

·        You may be directed to make some special preparation if you are going through some medication.

·       Breastfeeding women ask to avoid breastfeeding for a day after CT scan and if possible try to avoid CT scan.

·       In a few cases, a dye is injected into your body to get contrast image of body parts.

Do you know how many types of CT scans are available at CT scan centre?

Various CT scans are available at CT scan centers like:

• PET CT Scan: Known as positron emission tomography used in the treatment of cancer disease.
• Spiral or Helical CT Scan: It is the most advanced CT scan used to develop 3D images instead of 2D images.
• HRCT (High-Resolution CT Scan): It is used to diagnose inflammation in the lungs.
• CECT (Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography): It is used to produce brighter images of an abdominal scan.

CT scan cost depends on the type of scan prescribed by your doctor. CT scan is the most preferred and advanced technology to detect and diagnose critical diseases.

The new computed tomography devices are not only less harmful to patients, but also facilitate and speed up the diagnosis process notably.

The doctor advised me that he has to perform a CT scan and that he will do it with a new generation computerized tomography equipment. What advantages do you have compared to the conventional CT?

The main advantage is that images is lower dose of radiation to the patient and lowest cost CT scan in Delhi. Also, its higher resolution power makes it possible to identify lesions with greater clarity and, being more quickly, the problems caused by the involuntary movement of the patient are reduced.

This new technology also allows heart studies to be made in the time that a heartbeat lasts, as well as screening for lung cancer using low radiation dose protocols. Finally, in the cases of patients who may have implanted metallic materials, it contains contracts that reduce the distortion of the image produced by these implants.

Does it involve any risk to undergo this test?

Only the inherent risk derived from radiation, although it is lower than in conventional CT since it has a precise dose control system that ensures the minimum radiation needed in each scan and for each patient (calculated about their physical characteristics). Also, it is a highly safe test in pediatric patients.

Do I require to do any prior preparation? Is the test always performed with contrast?

Most studies do not require any preparation on the part of the patient. Specific scans need fasting or certain restrictions in the diet. Some cardio logical examinations must be preceded by medication to control the heart rhythm, always under medical supervision. Neither is it still necessary to administer contrast, although in many cases its administration provides more information for diagnosis.

The conventional CT scan may take several minutes, depending on the body region and the size of the patient. CT is the technique of choice to acquire two-dimensional complete axial images of the body without the disadvantages of bone or air overlay of conventional radiographs.

One of the advantages of the helical technique by CT scan centres is the possibility of detecting lesions smaller than the conventional thickness of a cut.

Both in the CT with the single crown detector and in the multi-detector CT, the data is acquired continuously while advancing the table through the Gantry. The X-ray tube describes an approximately helical path around the patient. If the progress of the table is coordinated with the time required for a 360º rotation, the data acquisition will be complete without interruption.

In conventional CT the x-ray tube receives the energy for a rotation, which usually lasts 1sg and the intervals of 6 - 10 sg, this allows the tube to cool between one sweep and the next. In the helical CT, the x-ray tube is subjected to a crucial thermal state, since it receives energy for about 30 sg without interruption. Therefore, the helical CT tube is characterized by its high thermal capacity, its high cooling rates, and its large size. All these technical conditions increase the noise of the system.

The sole reason as to why a doctor would order a CT Scan Abdomen or of the chest is to make detailed pictures and analyze the internal structure. CT scan is also known as Computerized tomography (CT) which is useful in obtaining very detailed 3D image of certain parts of the body.

The process is a progression of the x-ray project albeit one may deduce that it is done by taking many different x-ray views which are combined with the use of computer processing. They create cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissue inside of the body, including tissues inside of solid organ. The reason why X-rays are not a very preferred choice of imaging is due to the fact that the rays do not show clear images of soft tissues. The CT scan also gives the flexibility to use a contrast dye that allows showing up clearer image on the screen.  A crystal clear CT scan displays all the structures of the body including the lungs and cancer tumor.

Reasons for a Chest CT scan: 

CT scans are used for a multitude of reasons. Its benefits particularly help in the checking for certain cancers, the development of abnormal tumors and growth of lumps if any.

The CT scans have the ability to successfully locate the tumor, the stage at which the cancer is at and where to perform a biopsy.  The CT scans such as those for the chest can also be ordered after a mammogram exam. Some CT scans are tailored to look for heart disease, aneurysms of the aorta or pulmonary emboli.

In the aftermath of a therapy or surgery, a CT is perhaps the first that gets prescribed in the CT scan centre. This gives a clear idea as to how well the body is responding to treatment.

CT scans can be used to detect cysts or infections in the body.

It is now more of a regulation to go for a CT scan to inspect any internal injury after an accident to identify grave injuries especially the internal ones.

Role of CT scan in diagnosing the problems of the chest

• A CT scan can help doctors diagnose the cause of shortness of breath or chest pain, as well as find the cause of abnormal findings from a standard X-ray.
• A CT scan of the chest can discover masses, tumors, infections, or injuries. It can also show excess fluid around the lungs or a blood clot in the lungs.
• The problems such as blocked blood vessels, cancer, injury or heart problems can be assessed with a CT scan.
• Chest scan, also known as thorax CT scan can look into the potential problems of the heart, lungs esophagus, the aorta or even the tissues of the chest.

What is the safety limit of CT scan?

It is true that the CT scan test in the CT scan center Delhiis administered with radiation exposure but there is almost a cent percent chance that they are unlikely to harm the body in any internal or apparent way.

The CT Scan Cost Delhi   is between INR 2000 and 4000. For the CT scan brain angiography, the scan centers may charge anywhere around INR 12000.

Computed tomography of the lungs is a method of X-ray examination, which is based on the reproduction of images obtained by circular scanning of the object by a directed beam of X-rays. In the study of lungs, CT provides an opportunity to determine the location of interlobar gaps, intersegmental septa clearly, and assess the state of bronchi and pulmonary vessels. Computerized tomography of the lungs is the fastest and most accurate method of diagnosing diseases in this area.

The Primary Indications for the CT Scan Cost in Delhi NCR Are:

• Pleurisy
• Tumor Education
• Metastasis of tumors
• Parasitic cysts of the lungs
• Lung disorders caused by rheumatoid diseases
• Abscesses
• Suspicion of pulmonary arterial thromboembolism
• Tuberculosis

Computer tomography of the lung can be performed on a conventional tomography or spiral. Traditional CT of the lung is performed to visualize pathological processes in the lungs. The study time is approximately 20 minutes. During the scan, the patient must repeatedly hold his breath. CT of the lungs, carried out on a spiral tomograph lasts only about 15 seconds and it is necessary to delay breathing only once. This method makes it possible to evaluate the state of the lymph nodes of the mediastinal organs as well.

No preliminary preparation is necessary before carrying out a computed tomography of the lungs to the patient. The only exception is when the CT scan cost in Delhi is performed with contrast. In this case, it is recommended to refrain from eating for 5-6 hours before the study, as when injecting a contrast agent, a feeling of nausea may appear.

Contrast substance helps to visualize soft tissues and blood vessels better. During the study, the patient is on the movable table of the apparatus, which moves inside the tunnel, and at this time a tomography ring rotates around it. After the end of the procedure, the patient expects results.

The doctor concludes within 10-15 minutes, then all the data (pictures and their description) are given to the patient's hands or sent by e-mail to the treating doctor. Depending on the type of pathology detected, the treatment can be prescribed by doctors: an oncologist, a surgeon, or a pulmonologist.

HOW TO SCAN?

The specialist helps the patient to take the correct position on the computer tomography table. It is possible to use soft straps or ribbons to help keep the neck in the right place.

During the scan, the patient will be inside the computer tomograph. Many X-rays will pass through the patient's body when the X-ray tube rotates around it. The machine will take pictures from many sides, forming transverse images (slices) of the neck.

The technologist leaves the room. During the scan, the patient will be alone in the place, but the technologist can always see, hear and talk with him through the intercom.

For the first few checks, the table quickly moves through the scanner. The schedule will proceed slower for the rest of the scan. Neck scanning can take up to 15 minutes. Then the doctor looks at the pictures on the computer.

Some patients need a contrast study. Patients will receive a contrast (X-ray dye) during the scan. The difference makes the tissues and blood vessels more visible to the doctor's view to see them in CT images.

The CTS- Computed tomography is a diagnostic imaging method that, by exploiting the radiation, can represent the human body in the sections (tomography) performed according to axial planes, that is, with transversal cuts from head to toe. The X-ray tube, the element that emits X-rays, rotates around the patient, lying on a bed that moves horizontally.

The radiation passing through the patient's body are then converted into analog electrical signals and converted into digital data. In the most recent equipment (TAC multilayer or multidetector), sections, initially acquired according to the axial plane, can easily be reconstructed, without loss of detail, in all planes of space, sometimes using sophisticated dedicated reconstruction software.

What is CT scan with contrast?

The CT scan is used in motions fields: neurological, skeletal, trauma, thoracic, abdominal, cancer, gynecological, vascular and cardiac. With the multilayer, TAC can be displayed well not only the internal organs of the human body but also the arteries and veins.

What are contrast agents?

The contrast agents are substances or materials a radiology technician can be administered during a medical test to help better View the tissues and structures in your body. Commonly used in a computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) tests, the contrast media can help doctors diagnose certain medical conditions. While a severe reaction from the substances is rare, side effects and adverse reactions are possible.

The exam is designed exclusively for the study of the parenchyma (brain, lung, liver, pancreas, kidney, and uterus), the arterial blood vessels (aorta) and venous, soft tissue (muscle fascia), bones and joints.

How does the CT scan performed with contrast medium?

The patient is made to lie on a bed which flows through a short tunnel. There are claustrophobic. During the examination, it could be injected into a vein in the arm a contrast medium containing iodine, to make some details more visible (vascular structures and parenchyma). The injection causes a sensation of heat rather intense, but that fades quickly.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications to the execution of a CT scan. Since it uses X-rays, it is however not recommended for pregnant women and children.

The use of contrast medium can be contraindicated in the case of previous allergic reaction to contrast media, renal insufficiency, severe heart failure and other rare conditions. In the case of doubt, please contact your doctor or medical department.

How to find best CT scan price?

While the prices for CT scan are usually dependent on the type of test, you are undergoing as well as the center or clinic you opt for, yet there are chances to get the lowest cost CT scan in Delhi. Search for the best offered price for CT Scan on our website www.3hcare.in with reputed and renowned centers.

Both MRI and CT are two of the significant advances in current medicine since they allow the examination and detection of diseases using non-invasive methods, without the use of pesky and aggressive techniques such as lumbar punctures or arthrography for the patients.

For both reviews, the patient should lie on a stretcher and enter a relatively narrow cylindrical tunnel. The difference is that in MRI test the tube is a large electromagnetic magnet that allows you to take pictures of the inside of the body by subjecting it to a magnetic field. In a CT, the images are taken using an X-ray beam that makes a circular movement that surrounds the area to be investigated (multiple X-rays from various angles).

With the CT tests, it is possible to reconstruct in three dimensions the area explored, which is very useful when planning a surgery and is the order of the day to locate and treat tumors. Both are image tests, but they are not the same. The CT Scan cost is highly dependent on the scan center and clinic you are going for!

Magnetic resonance uses powerful magnetic fields to produce and detect changes at the molecular level of substances like the hydrogen that contains our body. These changes are very subtle and disappear when we leave the machine, but the machine can detect them and translate them into images of the interior of the body.

Both CT and resonance allow us to explore the inside of the body, but each one is more sensitive to a particular type of injury, so your doctor will indicate the one that is most appropriate as the case may be.

What is a CT Scan Test? What Does it Consist of?

The CT scan test is performed with a device called a scanner. During this test, the body is subjected to multiple rays released simultaneously from different angles, and then a computer assembles them to generate an image of the area to be studied. CT scanning is more detailed than an x-ray since only a beam of light is used on the current x-ray.

Because CT scan is a non-invasive procedure that provides detailed cross-sectional views of all tissue types, it is becoming the ideal method to diagnose many intestinal diseases such as diverticulitis and appendicitis and to visualize the liver, spleen, pancreas and the kidneys.

And Magnetic Resonance- What Does it Consist of?

On the other hand, Magnetic Resonance is a machine that allows obtaining an image of the soft tissues of a patient using the use of a magnetic field. Powerful magnets and radio waves are used to create body images. The main difference between CT and MRI test is that the second one does not use X-rays. Other differences are that the CT scan is faster to perform but has a lower resolution.

Because MRI test can give such clear images of the soft tissues around the bones, it is the most appropriate examination for spine and joint problems. It is also widely used to diagnose sports injuries, especially in the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow, and wrist. The images allow the doctor to see even tiny tears and lesions in the ligaments and muscles.