07/22/2025
📸 What’s the Difference Between X-ray, CT Scan, MRI, and PET?
Doctors order different types of scans depending on what they’re looking for—because each imaging method has its own purpose:
⸻ Zaki Wasel
🩻 1. X-ray:
• The simplest and fastest imaging method
• Used for broken bones, chest infections (like pneumonia), and dental issues
• Provides 2D images
• Cheap, quick, and low radiation
• But it doesn’t show small details like nerves or soft tissue well
⸻ zaki Wasell
💻 2. CT Scan (Computed Tomography):
• An advanced X-ray that provides 3D cross-sectional images
• Used for internal bleeding, tumors, abdominal or brain issues, and complex fractures
• Faster and more detailed than a regular X-ray
• Has higher radiation, so used only when necessary
⸻ zaki Wasell
🧲 3. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):
• Uses magnets and radio waves, no radiation
• Best for brain, nerves, muscles, cartilage, and joints
• Very detailed but expensive and time-consuming
• Not suitable for people with metal implants or pacemakers
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🔬 PET Scan:
• Measures metabolic activity in the body using a small dose of radioactive tracer
• Used for detecting and tracking cancer and evaluating how well treatment is working