Previously, back in the early twentieth century, it was possible to find out the state of the internal organs of the abdominal cavity only during a surgical operation, risking the patient's health. Scientists have been able to help look inside the human body using physical phenomena. Thus, the creation of a magnetic field, for example, in the area of ​​​​the intestines, is necessary for the study of the intestine. And the properties of X-rays made it possible to study in detail the parenchyma of hollow organs. The first example refers to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI for short), while the second refers to computed tomography (CT). Both forms of research are used to diagnose pathologies of the abdominal organs. Let's figure out which is better - MRI or CT of the contents of the abdominal cavity, and what is the difference between one examination method and another.

To study the state of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract and small pelvis, various diagnostic methods are used - endoscopic (laparoscopy, cholangioscopy, colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, and others), ultrasound, and conventional radiography. Depending on the situation, the doctor may prescribe magnetic resonance or computed tomography. In both cases, the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space are clearly visible. The final decision on the choice of diagnostic method is made only by a specialist.

MRI and CT

MRI is a study based on obtaining a three-dimensional array of data by exposing the organs under study to electromagnetic impulses and assessing the various reactions of tissues to them. The received information is modeled into a three-dimensional image. Subsequently, you can consider layer-by-layer sections, select areas and bring them closer, change projections. This allows the doctor to have a good view of the abdominal cavity and retroperitoneal space.

Computed tomography of the abdominal cavity is another method for obtaining a picture in three-dimensional space. Data is obtained from the results of the difference in the passage of x-rays through tissues. And, if with conventional X-ray the beam is directed to the film or matrix once, then tomography is performed in an apparatus equipped with an annular circuit that emits discrete radiation fluxes. A series of images is formed, subsequently converted into a three-dimensional image, which can be studied in detail.

What do abdominal MRI and CT scans reveal?

If necessary, an abdominal (pertaining to the abdominal cavity) examination MRI or CT will provide an opportunity to examine the internal organs, identify pathologies, and determine the source of problems. Since different types of radiation are initiated in tomographs, the described methods solve different problems.

MRI is more effective in studying the general condition of the soft tissues of the peritoneum and small pelvis, blood vessels, joints, and in obtaining an answer to the question about the nature of the neoplasm. The tomograph captures such changes.

• Tumor formations in the liver parenchyma, inflammatory processes, cirrhotic changes even at the initial stage.
• During the examination of the liver and biliary tract, the presence of stones is detected.
• Malignant or benign tumors in the pancreas;
• Acute or chronic pancreatitis.
• Tumor processes and cysts in the spleen, bending of its legs.
• Pathologies in the adrenal glands and kidneys.

Tumors, stones, cysts are perfectly visualized on a computed tomogram. On the screen of the workstation, "fresh" bleeding will be clearly visible. It is X-ray techniques that allow screening of hollow organs, including the stomach, intestines and others. The doctor gets the opportunity to carefully examine all the lymphatic vessels and nodes.

It is this diagnostic method that is universal if it is necessary to check the abdominal cavity. With the help of computed tomography, the sizes of organs, their position, inflammatory processes are determined already at the initial stages, dysfunction of the peritoneal organs as a whole.

Physical and functional features of CT and MRI - what are the similarities and differences

Magnetic resonance and computed tomography are similar in that as a result of both studies, three-dimensional images of organs are obtained. What is the difference between them?

In the course of MR-scanning of the abdominal organs (ABP), a scheme of exposure to a magnetic field is used. The research principle is based on the effect of nuclear magnetic resonance. After the MRI machine emits a pulse, the electromagnetic response of the atomic nuclei of hydrogen, which, as you know, is one of the components of the water molecule, is measured. Tissues containing fluid give a more intense reaction, and therefore are better visualized, but cavities and bones are practically invisible on MRI. Given that the number and concentration of hydrogen atoms in muscles, blood vessels, and bones differ, this leads to a resonance of varying intensity. And the molecular structure of a tissue with pathological changes differs from a healthy one.

Computed tomography is based on the principle of x-ray radiation, but it is used more efficiently than with conventional x-rays. In the tomograph, along the gantry circle, which rotates during the examination, the emitter and detector are located. The first emits a beam of rays, the second - receives. It is known that the nature of the passage of Ro rays depends on the density of obstacles encountered on the way. So, dense structures absorb them, and cavities let them through without delaying them. Taking into account that the final image is negative, the bones are visualized on the screen almost white, and the cavities are black. Differences in tissue density appear as shades of grey. Knowing X-ray anatomy, you can find areas that do not correspond to the norm and identify pathology.

A type of CT scan of the abdominal cavity is MSCT, that is, multilayer (or multislice) computed tomography. The difference between conventional and multispiral techniques is in the number of detectors located around the circumference of the gantry. There are two or more of them in the MSCT machine, they are located on different rows, so the procedure is short in time, the image resolution is higher, and it also becomes possible to monitor the processes in real time.

Indications and contraindications

If you try to generalize, then CT is prescribed to obtain a general picture of the state of OBP, to identify internal bleeding (especially with injuries), and a detailed examination of hollow organs. MRI is effective for the analysis of tumors, including monitoring the dynamics of previously identified formations, diagnosing inflammation, abscesses, hernias, cysts and similar structures.

CT is contraindicated in pregnant women because ionizing radiation has a teratogenic effect. For children, such an examination is prescribed in exceptional cases, when alternative diagnostic methods are powerless. Computed tomography is not recommended for patients with multiple myeloma, renal failure, diabetes mellitus and other autoimmune diseases, including thyroid pathologies.

MRI cannot be performed on people who have non-removable metal structures, including implants, pins, prostheses, even tattoos made using iron-containing dyes. For the same reason, scanning is contraindicated for people with pacemakers, hearing implants, and insulin pumps. Patients with neurological diseases should take into account that the session lasts at least half an hour, and all this time it is necessary to remain still. Such patients, as well as children and those suffering from claustrophobia, may be shown sedatives on the eve of the procedure.

When performing a scan with contrast for both methods of examination, contraindications are an allergy to the components of the drug.

Features of preparation

In the case of magnetic resonance imaging, there is no need for preliminary preparation, as such. The only exception to the rule is a possible test for an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. No additional diet is required.

Before the diagnosis on a computed tomography, you will already have to fully prepare. The procedure is carried out exclusively on an empty stomach, and there should be no food in the gastrointestinal tract. Accordingly, for two days before visiting the diagnostic room, it is necessary to completely abandon gas-forming and heavy food. In preparation for an abdominal CT scan, it is strongly recommended not to consume carbonated drinks, alcohol, sour-milk products, pickles, yeast and legumes.

If it is not possible to get rid of food processing products in a natural way, on the eve of the appointed date, you should take a Forlax tablet or another laxative. On the day of the study, a cleansing enema may be given if the situation so requires.

Applying contrast

Thanks to the use of special contrast preparations, it becomes possible to examine the organ of interest in detail. Entering the patient's body, the contrast agent fills the structures, which is reflected on the screen of the workstation.

In some cases, double contrast is used. What does it mean? The drug is divided into two parts. The first is administered intravenously, the second is simply given to drink.

For MRI, gadolinium-based compounds are used as contrast agents, for CT, iodine-containing compounds are used.

Who should do the research

Regardless of what the doctor ordered - to do a CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity - modern equipment can be adjusted to such an accuracy that it will photograph every millimeter of the diagnosed organ. However, each of the considered methods cannot be called universal.

Computed tomography is prescribed to obtain a general picture of OBP. The need for it is also justified:

• the presence of injuries. You can establish the fact of internal bleeding;
• the need for routine diagnostics of hollow organs and vessels.

After the successful completion of the procedure, the three-dimensional model makes it possible to detect cysts, tumors, calculi and other abnormalities. To increase the information content, a contrast agent is used.

An MRI is usually ordered for:

• the presence of suspicions of the development of tumors concentrated on the walls of soft tissues;
• the need to check the membranes and structures of the nerves located in the abdominal region;
• postoperative monitoring.

That is, a CT scan is prescribed if a person has suffered an injury, or to examine the internal hollow organs. MRI, in turn, is suitable for detecting and determining the localization of inflammatory processes, tumors, and other formations.

The difference in information content

Both the first and second methods are informative. However, based on the principle of operation of the equipment, we note the following difference.

• When performing computed tomography, it is easier to determine the presence of solid formations and analyze the density of tissues, which varies depending on the nature of the existing disease.
• When prescribing magnetic resonance imaging, pathologies of cartilage and soft tissues are better detected.

Knowing how CT differs from MRI, we can assume how a CT scan will differ from an MRI. For example, on CT of the spine, bones are perfectly visible, and on MRI, joints and intervertebral discs are clearly visible. Both forms of diagnosis are characterized by visual results, which can be improved by the use of a contrast agent.

Although the described methods are accurate, they do not have the status of independent ones. This means that they are carried out in a complex, together with other procedures prescribed by the attending physician. In most cases, tomography of the abdominal organs is sent after ultrasound.

Abdominal MRI and cholangiography

If there are problems with the proper functioning of the bile ducts, an abdominal MRI and cholangiography can be performed. The main task of research is to accurately visualize the area of ​​\u200b\u200bprobable pathology. On the one hand, MRI shows violations of the structure of the soft tissues of internal organs, and cholangiography shows stones and tumors.

Cholangiography is a procedure that is usually performed using x-ray machines after contrast is injected. But such a variety of it as MR cholangiography excludes radiation exposure.

Since the bile ducts are located near the gallbladder and liver, cholangiography also allows you to check these organs.

Comparison of the cost of examinations

Both CT and MRI are expensive procedures. Therefore, the doctor usually writes out referrals to them after passing an x-ray or ultrasound to specify the proposed diagnoses.

The difference between the price of CT and MRI of the abdominal cavity is insignificant: a session of magnetic resonance diagnostics costs 4-14 thousand rubles, a computer one costs 3-8 thousand rubles. The spread of prices is due to the geographical factor and the status of the clinic.

MRI and CT are presented as non-invasive diagnostic methods used to determine pathological processes in the patient's body. Often the patient is faced with the question of choosing between these two methods, and the difference between them is significant. So, which is better to choose, and what factors should you focus on when comparing?

Both diagnostic techniques allow layer-by-layer examination of the organ of interest at the required angle and enlarge the resulting image. It is in the principle of operation of MRI and CT and the features of the impact on the patient's body that the key lies.

1. The principle of operation of a computed tomograph is based on x-ray radiation, but the radiation concentration in this case is negligible. For scanning, special programs are used, thanks to which it is possible to display an image of the area of ​​interest in the abdominal cavity or a specific organ on the screen. Thanks to the use of a contrast fluid, it is possible to examine each organ separately, during the day the substances are excreted from the body without a trace.
2. Magnetic resonance imaging works by emitting electromagnetic signals that do not have a pathological effect on humans. The principle of the method under consideration is that hydrogen atoms contained in the patient's organs react to electromagnetic signals. The reaction of the body is transformed into images of a certain area, which are visible on the monitor during the procedure.

Comparison of indications for referral for examination

The expediency of prescribing one or another diagnostic method directly depends on the results that they allow to obtain. Computed tomography of the abdomen, for example, better displays x-ray tissue density and allows identification of solid masses. An MR tomograph is more informative in the study of inflammatory processes and soft tissues of the abdominal cavity, changes in the brain membrane and cartilaginous tissues.

Only the attending physician can be responsible for the choice of a particular method. For example, CT is prescribed to detect and study internal bleeding in strokes and injuries, while MRI is more suitable for visualizing the size of the neoplasm and its location relative to the internal organs (liver). The procedure itself is quite slow, but the image is very high quality and informative.

CT and magnetic resonance imaging cannot be called completely independent methods, therefore, the complex appointment of these two studies or in combination with a third method, for example, is not excluded. In any case, the choice remains with the doctor.

Comparison of diagnostic results

It is MRI that should be used to diagnose a disease at an early stage, since such a study immediately determines the presence of a pathological process in tissues or organs, so that the doctor will be able to make a diagnosis in a timely manner based on the images obtained. What exactly are the changes?

• stones in the ducts in the study of the liver and biliary tract;
• neoplasms in the liver parenchyma, cirrhosis at the initial stage, inflammatory processes;
• tumor formations and cysts in the spleen;
• malignant and benign tumors in the pancreas, chronic or acute pancreatitis;
• inflammatory processes in the adrenal glands and kidneys;
• kink of the peduncle of the spleen.

Computed tomography, in turn, gives clear results on any organ of the abdominal cavity, pathological processes, the state of blood vessels and lymph nodes. The smallest negative changes are displayed in a three-dimensional image, while thanks to high-speed scanning, the results are deciphered in just two hours. The considered diagnostic method allows diagnosing pathological changes in the activity of internal organs, detecting the onset of the inflammatory process, determining the size of the internal organ and its location relative to other organs and systems. In the treatment of cancerous formations, this method is considered to be the most effective and efficient.

About contraindications

Each of the mentioned diagnostic methods has contraindications, but in the case of MRI they are categorical, and for CT they are relative. Among the following situations:

• use of an insulin pump;
• the presence of prostheses or non-ferromagnetic foreign bodies;
• severe manifestations of claustrophobia;
• pregnancy;
• the presence of metal implants in the body;
• the presence of a pacemaker;
• , for the creation of which different dyes were used (relative contraindication).

As for computed tomography, there are no absolute contraindications in this case. The patient can be diagnosed at any age. If we are talking about children and pregnant women, it is worthwhile to analyze in advance the possible negative factors of radiation exposure, since its effect on the body has not yet been fully studied. The next negative factor is the use of contrast fluid, due to which the organ under study is displayed more accurately. Preparations used as a basis for contrast can cause allergies, so the use of the substance should be appropriate and if it is necessary, the preliminary use of antiallergic drugs is mandatory.

Comparison of examination costs

The differences between the considered diagnostic methods are not only in the principle of operation of tomographs and the features of the information received, but also in the cost of the procedure, which is often a decisive factor for the patient. Preferring a more affordable procedure, do not forget about such a factor as safety. The cost of computed tomography is more affordable compared to MRI, however, it is magnetic resonance imaging that is considered absolutely safe for the body.

In most cases, it is the medical specialist who decides which examination to do - CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity, since it is the doctor who receives the results and makes a diagnosis based on them.

The level of medicine is currently quite high. There are a large number of studies that allow you to make a diagnosis with high accuracy. In the arsenal of doctors - the latest technology. With their help, it is possible to look inside the body and identify pathologies in the development or work of internal organs.

These new diagnostic techniques include magnetic resonance and computed tomography. These studies are often used to clarify the diagnosis. Many people go through these procedures without a doctor's referral. In this case, it is important to know how MRI differs from CT.

Operating principle

Despite the fact that as a result of both studies a three-dimensional image of the internal organs is obtained, there is a significant difference between them:

• The degree of sensitivity.
• According to the principle of action.

A CT scanner works using x-rays. This is a whole installation, which, rotating around the patient's body, takes pictures. All received images are then summed up, and the computer is engaged in their processing.

The difference between MRI and CT in principle is that there are no X-rays here, and magnetic fields are in the service of a person. Under their influence, the hydrogen atoms present in the patient's body line up in parallel with respect to the direction of the magnetic field.

The machine sends out a radio frequency pulse that travels perpendicular to the main magnetic field. The tissues in the human body enter into resonance, and the tomograph is able to recognize these cell vibrations, decipher them and build multilayer images.

Indications for MRI and CT procedures

There are diseases for which there is no significant difference what kind of research you will undergo. Both one and the second device will be able to give an accurate result.

However, there are pathologies in which it is worth considering which is better - MRI or CT?

Assign most often when there is a need to study in detail the soft tissues in the body, the nervous system, muscles, joints. In such pictures, all pathologies will be clearly visible.

But the skeletal system, due to the insignificant content of hydrogen protons, responds poorly to magnetic radiation, and the result may not be entirely accurate. In these cases, it is better to perform computed tomography.

CT can also provide a more accurate picture of hollow organs such as the stomach, intestines, and lungs.

If we talk about diseases, then MRI is indicated for:

Computed tomography is best done to examine:

• organs of the respiratory system.
• Kidney.
• Abdominal organs.
• Skeletal system.
• When diagnosing the exact location of injuries.

Thus, it becomes clear that the difference between MRI and CT lies in different points of application.

Contraindications for procedures

Despite their effectiveness, both devices have contraindications for use. Most often, patients refuse because of the fear of x-ray exposure. When answering the question of which is safer, MRI or CT, they tend to choose the first study.

Upon closer examination, it can be noted that both types have their own contraindications.

What distinguishes MRI from CT is its indications for conducting. not shown:

1. Pregnant women (due to the danger of radiation exposure to the fetus).
2. Children of early age.
3. For frequent use.
4. In the presence of plaster in the study area.
5. With renal failure.
6. During breastfeeding.

It also has its contraindications:

1. Claustrophobia, when a person is afraid of closed spaces.
2. The presence of a pacemaker in the body.
3. First trimester of pregnancy.
4. Large patient weight (more than 110 kilograms).
5. The presence of metal implants, for example, in the joints.

All of the listed contraindications are absolute, but before the procedure, you should consult a doctor, maybe in your case there will also be special recommendations.

Advantages of magnetic resonance imaging

To understand which is better - MRI or CT, it is necessary to consider the advantages of each type of study.

Has a lot of positive aspects:

• All information received is highly accurate.
• This is the most informative research method for lesions of the central nervous system.
• Accurately diagnoses vertebral hernias.
• It is a safe examination for pregnant women and children.
• You can use it as often as you need.
• Absolutely painless.
• Three-dimensional images are obtained.
• It is possible to save information in the computer memory.
• The probability of getting erroneous information is almost zero.
• No exposure to x-rays.

Considering the features of the device and its principle of operation, during the study, loud knocks are possible, which you should not be afraid of, you can use headphones.

Benefits of Computed Tomography

In appearance, both scanners are very similar. The result of their work also comes down to obtaining thin sections of the studied areas in the picture. Without a detailed study, it is very difficult to say how MRI differs from CT.

The advantages of computed tomography include the following facts:

As you can see, a CT scanner is in no way inferior in its advantages to a magnetic resonance scanner, therefore, what is better - MRI or CT, must be decided in each case.

Disadvantages of each type of study

Currently, almost all types of surveys have both positive aspects and certain disadvantages. Tomographs in this regard are no exception.

The disadvantages of MRI diagnostics include the following facts:

The disadvantages of computed tomography are as follows:

• The study does not provide information about the functional state of organs and tissues, but only about their structure.
• Harmful effect
• Contraindicated for pregnant women and children.
• You can not do this procedure often.

Informative methods

After visiting the doctor, you will be assigned an examination, which, according to the doctor, will give a more truthful and accurate result.

If you do not know what is more accurate - MRI or CT, then please note that magnetic resonance imaging will give a more accurate and informative result in the presence of the following pathologies:

1. Brain tumor, stroke and multiple sclerosis.
2. All pathologies of the spinal cord.
3. Pathologies of intracranial nerves and brain structures.
4. Muscle and tendon injuries.
5. Soft tissue tumors.

If you have serious violations of vital functions, then you should additionally consult with your doctor.

A CT scanner will give more accurate information if there are:

• Suspicion of intracranial hemorrhage, trauma.
• Damage and diseases of bone tissue.
• Respiratory pathology.
• Atherosclerotic vascular lesions.
• Lesions of the facial skeleton, thyroid gland.
• Otitis and sinusitis.

A preoperative study will give an accurate picture of the area of ​​the upcoming surgical intervention.

If you are firmly convinced of the alleged diagnosis, then you can choose the research method yourself.

The main differences between the methods

Despite such a large number of similarities, there is still a difference between CT and MRI. If in several paragraphs, then you can say the following:

1. The most important difference between these two research methods lies in their principle of operation. MRI uses a magnetic field, while CT uses X-rays.
2. Both methods can be used to diagnose a huge number of pathologies.
3. With the same result, you may be inclined to choose an MRI, since this study is safer, but its cost is more expensive.
4. Each procedure has its own contraindications, so they must be considered before making the final choice.

Remember, your health is in your hands, and sometimes it doesn’t matter which diagnostic method to use, the most important thing is to get an accurate and truthful result and start treatment in a timely manner.

» CT and MRI of the abdomen. Which method is better and what is the difference?

CT and MRI of the abdomen. Which method is better and what is the difference?

Modern types of diagnostics offer people several options for a qualitative examination of internal organs at once. What to choose MRI or CT of the abdominal cavity? Consider the difference between the types of diagnostics, features and benefits.

Resonance diagnostics

What is an MRI? This is diagnostics by a magnetic field using a tomograph apparatus. Magnetic radiation is safe for health, because it has no effect on the body - it works with hydrogen molecules in the human body. The device creates a high voltage magnetic field and catches the response from the organ under study. Then the data is processed using a computer program and displayed on the monitor screen.

Note! Examination of the abdominal cavity MRI is completely safe for humans.

The only inconvenience during the procedure is the forced immobility of the body: magnetic resonance imaging is performed in a fixed position. Any movement during the procedure interferes with the scan. The device examines the organs in layers - through every millimeter. Therefore, during the movement, a fuzzy “blurred” image is created.

When is MRI ordered? Resonance tomography is carried out to study the soft structures of the body, the apparatus does not distinguish between solid parts of the body. For example, this tomograph will not detect stones in the abdominal organs, unlike MSCT or CT. To examine the intestines and stomach, it is better to do an MRI than a CT scan.

CT scan

Consider the features of a CT scanner. The examination is carried out using x-rays, as in conventional fluorography. This is a significant disadvantage of this type of diagnostics. Compared to an MRI, a CT scan does not take much time - there is no need to be in a fixed position for a long time.

In addition to this advantage, there are other positive features of CT:

• the procedure can be performed with any implants in the body - metal and electronic;
• examination is not contraindicated for those suffering from claustrophobia and epilepsy;
• the device does not create a lot of noise during operation and does not cause discomfort;
• the cost of the examination is much cheaper than using a magnetic tomograph.

Note! Modern computed tomography offers an improved research method using spiral diagnostics: its second name is multispiral.

What does it mean? This is a layer-by-layer scan of the organ under study, as in MRI. The device for one revolution creates about 300 images in different planes. Thanks to spiral scanning, it became possible to obtain objective information about abdominal organs and soft tissues, which was previously impossible.

The cost of MSC tomography is higher than conventional computed tomography, but good informative results are obtained. How is a patient examined with a spiral tomograph? Just like with conventional computer diagnostics.

Comparative characteristics

What is better to prefer - CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity? The abdominal cavity contains most of the vital organs of the body - the digestive, urinary, and endocrine systems. Any organ included in the listed systems can be examined.

If the question concerns the information content of the examined organs, then both tomographs will be able to distinguish between malignant neoplasms and the features of the functioning of all systems. MRI and CT scan the stomach well, determine the pathology of the intestines and kidneys / liver. However, MRI will not see stones in the organs, so CT should be chosen to diagnose sand and stones in the kidneys / gallbladder.

What else can not cope with a magnetic tomograph? He will not be able to clearly visualize the skeletal system due to the peculiarities of the magnetic field - in dense structures there are no hydrogen molecules in sufficient quantities. The resonant tomograph does not work with the organ itself, but with the hydrogen molecules in it. Therefore, scanning of the skeletal system can only be performed using X-rays, as well as the abdominal lymphatic system.

Benefits of MRI:

• you can examine children from birth;
• the procedure is harmless to the body;
• no need to take tests before the examination;
• pregnant/nursing mothers can be examined;
• universality of diagnostics - a complete examination of the body in one procedure.

However, the cost of diagnostics is high - from 3000 rubles. and higher. This is a big minus. Therefore, patients choose computed tomography or ultrasound.

Benefits of CT:

• low cost compared to MRI;
• can be examined with implants in the body;
• there is no need to be immobilized for a long time;
• well defines stones/sand in abdominal organs;
• clear visualization of bone structures;
• the ability to identify tumors, cysts and internal bleeding.

Computed tomography can completely replace resonant if there are no contraindications to X-ray irradiation.

Outcome

What to choose from two types of diagnostics? The choice is determined by the subject of the survey. If you need to determine the presence of stones in the abdominal organs, you should choose CT. If the subject of the study is to identify the tumor and determine its nature, both tomographs will clearly cope with the task. In this case, the price or availability of implants may be an obstacle to MRI, and a previously made fluorogram or contraindications regarding the patient's health may be an obstacle to CT.

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Modern diagnostic methods allow, without special preparation of the patient, to examine almost all internal organs and establish the cause of a person’s poor health. Many diseases, even of different organs, are sometimes accompanied by similar symptoms that are difficult to distinguish even for an experienced doctor. An error in diagnosis can slow down treatment, or lead it in the wrong direction.

Therefore, the diagnosis of diseases is given a very important place in modern medicine. Along with methods proven by decades of practice, new, more informative and safer methods are emerging. It's no secret that the usual x-ray machine is quite dangerous, and some invasive methods of obtaining tests can seriously harm the patient. Comparatively new diagnostic devices - computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are completely safe for humans.

Specific contraindications may serve as a limitation for their use:

• The presence of a pacemaker or other electronic system permanently operating in the body
• Metal implants or prostheses that cannot be removed
• Early pregnancy
• hypermobility
• For MRI - claustrophobia
• Allergic reactions to the contrast agent (in cases of tomography with contrast)

Differences in tomography methods

Devices for diagnostics differ in the principle of operation and, accordingly, in the effect on the tissues of the human body. A CT scanner uses x-rays, just like a conventional x-ray machine, but the intensity is very low. They are focused into a very narrow beam, which shines through the body only at a given point. Moving in a circle and forward at the same time, the emitter describes a spiral around the patient's body.

The detector paired with the emitter perceives the transmitted rays and transmits them to the computer. Due to the spiral constant movement of the emitter, the body is translucent at different angles, which makes it possible to create photographs of organs in various projections. With the help of computer programs embedded in the tomograph. It is possible to recreate not only any image in any required projection, but also a three-dimensional image of the organ as a whole, or any of its parts.

Photos can be divided according to the depth of location of one or another required object. This makes it possible to determine the location of a pathological change, for example, a tumor, its size and internal structure.

Magnetic resonance imaging is based on the principle of the reaction of the organism itself to external electromagnetic radiation. The reaction occurs at the atomic level and does not affect the human condition as a whole. For several decades of using MRI, not a single case of deterioration in health or changes in body parameters after the procedure has been noticed.

Only hydrogen atoms located in a powerful constant magnetic field react to an alternating electromagnetic field. Their number in different organs is different - it depends, in the general case, on the amount of water, therefore, the reaction to excitation manifests itself with different intensity. This determines the detector of secondary radiation.

As in CT, information enters the computer and is displayed on the display in the form of photographs or a model of an organ. It is also possible to record information on digital media. The use of MRI or CT for the abdominal cavity is possible without restrictions, if there are no contraindications listed above.

Differences in the information content of CT and MRI

In the general case, that is, for most organs, CT and MRI have almost the same informative value. But there are also a number of differences determined by different physical processes underlying the operation of the apparatus. On CT, solid formations are better seen, the x-ray density of tissues is better distinguishable, which varies depending on a particular disease. An MR tomograph is more informative in the study of soft tissues, inflammatory processes, changes in cartilage tissues and the brain membrane. Pathological changes in the spinal cord and craniospinal junction are also better seen on a magnetic tomograph.

What is better than an MRI or CT scan of the abdominal cavity is unambiguously difficult to say. In practice, both methods are suitable for the study of this area of ​​the body, saturated with internal organs of various density, configuration and functional activity, especially in studies with contrast. This applies, first of all, to oncological diseases. But with an equal share of informativeness, both methods examine the liver with bile ducts, and the pancreas and kidneys. What is better than CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity - the doctor determines.

It is the doctor who can determine what he wants to see, what to focus on, which is still incomprehensible in the patient's condition. CT and MRI, even at the present stage of development, cannot be considered completely independent research methods that provide 100% information. They are used in combination with other diagnostic methods, and an MRI or CT scan of the abdominal cavity should be done only in the direction of a specialist.

It is possible to determine what is more informative than CT or MRI of the abdominal cavity only in relation to each specific case. For example, CT shows fresh bleeding more clearly and in detail, so this method is preferable for injuries or strokes. MRI is slower, but the localization and size of tumors on it are better determined. Both of these methods are often used in combination.