Are CT Scans and X-Rays Outdated: There was a time when people were advised to undergo X-ray and CT scan in case of any kind of problem. Now times have changed a lot and doctors recommend MRI in most of the cases. Many health related problems can be easily detected through MRI. The cost of MRI is also higher than CT scan and X-ray. In such a situation, a question arises in the minds of many patients whether old imaging techniques like CT scan and X-Ray have become outdated? Is MRI now necessary for every disease? Let us know about this from the doctor.

Dr. Abhishek Bansal, Senior Consultant, Interventional Radiology Department, Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital, Delhi told News18. That X-ray, CT scan and MRI all three have their own importance. No imaging technology can be called outdated. Talking about X-Ray, it is one of the oldest and fastest imaging technology. Even today, X-rays are very useful in diagnosing bone fractures, lung infections like pneumonia or TB and examining teeth. It takes less than 1 minute to do an X-ray and its cost is low. However, in this imaging only 2D image is visible.

Doctor Bansal told that if we talk about computed tomography i.e. CT scan, then this scan can be considered as an advanced version of X-ray. It gives a cross-sectional image of the body. It is considered useful in the diagnosis of head injury, brain hemorrhage, serious lung problems, internal organs of the stomach and cancer. Liver and kidney problems can also be detected through this scan. CT scan gives very fast results in emergency conditions, hence it is given priority in cases of accident or stroke. CT scan is done in 2 minutes. In this scan, 3D image is visible, but it contains X-ray radiation.

According to experts, Magnetic Resonance Imaging i.e. MRI is the most advanced technology and there is no radiation in it. In MRI, 3D images are taken inside the body with the help of powerful magnetic fields and radio waves. MRI gives more accurate information about problems in our spinal cord, nerves, muscles and soft tissue. MRI produces the most accurate images in tumors, ligament injuries, slipped discs or neurological diseases. In cases where the image of body parts cannot be formed in X-ray and CT scan, MRI is advised. It takes about 30 minutes to do MRI and its cost is high.

According to radiologists, MRI is considered safe even for pregnant women, because it does not contain radiation. However, CT scan and X-Ray cannot be considered outdated. According to the condition of the patient, doctors recommend X-ray, CT scan or MRI. Patients should rely on expert advice rather than seeking testing on their own. MRI, CT scan and X-Ray are three important tools of modern medicine, which apart from diagnosis, are also being used in treatment.