Ct Vs Mri?

[ericaj]

Can anyone tell me if there is a difference between a CT scan and a MRI?
Does it involve iv's or any meds?

I got the appt scheduled with the Pulmonlogist, my ACHD Cardio wants me to see scheduled for Nov. 4th and the Pulm. wanted me to have PFT testing done immediately before the appt. and also have a CT Scan done. They are going to call me back and schedule the CT Scan but either the day of the appt. or beforehand.

A little nervous,

Erica

 

[geebee]

Hi Erica,

To my understanding the difference is a CT scan uses xrays and the MRI uses "magnetic wave pictures" (probably not a technical term but understandable I thiink). Which is used depends on what they are looking for because each one has its advantages.
During a CT scan, they often take a series of pictures initially and then they inject a contrast dye before taking more pictures. This gives them a very clear image of what is happening. I have never had a MRI so I do not know if they use contrasting dye with them but I would assume it could be also.
The contrast dye is like what is used during a cardiac cath so, if you have had one of them, you are already familar with the dye. If you have not had a cardiac cath, the dye sends a very warm feeling throughout your body. It is not comfortable but it is very brief. It has always made me feel like I was urinating but I wasn't so, if that feeling happens to you, it is only a feeling and not actually happening.

Both are wonderful, diagnostic tests and can give your doctors so much information that any discomfort from the dye is well worth it for the answers.

Good luck,
Gina