"The doctor wrote a note and asked me to do an MRI, but my friend said that a CT scan is enough, what else can be done?", "I heard that PET-CT is the best, so if you can afford it, you should just go for it?" In Hong Kong, when you need further physical examination, you are often faced with the three medical imaging giants of CT (computer scan), MRI (magnetic resonance) and PET-CT (positron electron scan), and you are often filled with questions. Choosing the wrong instrument will not only waste money and time, but may also delay diagnosis due to unclear images. We provide you with a 2-minute "machine picking" lazy bag to disassemble the three parts in the most intimate way!
CT scan
#Keywords:Extreme speed, blood vessels and arteries, caring for the heart and lungs
Think of it as a "stereoscopic X-ray machine". It uses X-rays to penetrate the body 360 degrees, "cut" the internal organs into hundreds of cross-sections like bread, and then reconstruct them into 3D images.
The scanning process is very fast, taking only a few seconds to minutes, and CT is the first choice for the elderly or children who have difficulty staying still for long periods of time. At the same time, it can more accurately evaluate cardiovascular, pulmonary, infectious diseases, cancer, and tumors.
It should be noted that CT scan is not recommended for those who are pregnant or suspected of being pregnant, have been allergic to contrast agents, and have asthma, kidney disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease, etc.
Contains radiation (but within a safe range) and is generally not recommended for pregnant women.
MRI Magnetic Resonance
#Keywords:No radiation, soft tissue, nerve lines
It uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to detect the reaction of water molecules in the body. Because the human body is mostly water, it can create extremely fine soft tissue maps without radiation.
MRI has far better resolution than CT for brain tissue, spinal nerves, muscles, ligaments, and blood vessels. If you have sciatica, a herniated disc, or a torn meniscus in your knee, an MRI can show whether the nerve strands are pinched.
The whole MRI process takes at least half an hour and requires staying still. If you have claustrophobia, you can choose the latest Siemens magnetic resonance scanner, which is only 145 centimeters in length, which will better alleviate claustrophobia.
Currently, Siemens magnetic resonance scanning equipment is provided at HKAI Medical Diagnostic Center. Please refer toHKAI MRI Scan..
PET-CT Positron Electron Computer Scan
#Keywords:Staging of chronic diseases, cranial nerves, cardiovascular disease
This is not used to "find the cause of pain", but is specifically used to "catch cancer cells". Before the examination, a trace amount of radioactive glucose tracer is injected. Because cancer cells are "greedier" than normal cells and will steal a large amount of glucose, they will glow brightly in the image.
PET-CT has advantages in distinguishing benign and malignant;
Guide list: I have this symptom, which one should I have?
| Symptoms/Suspect questions | Recommended first choice | Why choose him? (Differential Deconstruction) |
| Long-term low back pain, numbness in the legs, numbness in the hands | MRI | A herniated disc is suspected to be pressing on the nerve line. CT sees good bones, but sees nerve lines and cartilage not clear enough MRI. |
| Long-term smoking, chronic cough, worry about lung cancer | CT (LDCT) | When the lungs are filled with air, MRI imaging is poor. Low-dose CT may be considered. |
| Bumped head, suspected stroke (emergency) | CT | Quickly check whether there is cerebral hemorrhage or skull crack to gain golden rescue time. |
| Frequent dizziness, family history of brain tumors | MRI | I want to examine cerebral blood vessels and tiny tumors in detail, and do not want to bear the risk of radiation. |
| Sports injuries (knee/shoulder headaches) | MRI | Suspect a ligament tear or meniscus injury, and these soft tissues are not visible on CT. |
| Diagnosed with a chronic disease, wondering if it has spread | PET-CT | The only instrument that can perform whole-body metabolic scans to accurately assess the stage of cancer. |
Please note that the above table is for reference only. Specific personal conditions, health conditions, etc. need to be evaluated and recommended by professional medical staff before making a decision.
HKAI combines cutting-edge imaging technology with humanized design. The center is equipped with elegant and spacious decoration, comfortable sofa seats and other environmental facilities, as well as a strategic location to make examinations convenient and secure.
If you have any concerns about imaging examinations, please contact HKAI.
Disclaimer: This content is independently written by a third party. It only provides information for everyone. It is not sponsored in any way. It cannot replace professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment, nor does it represent any position. If you have any physical discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical advice as soon as possible.