When talking about CT vs. MRI, there is a lot of overlap with similar accuracies. The expertise and type of equipment your imaging partners have may determine the best test to use. However, for imaging of the central nervous system, spine, and spinal contents, MRI is superior in almost all applications. MRI is the best modality for early detection of occult fractures such as hip fractures in the elderly. Musculoskeletal tumors are best evaluated by MRI; however, both modalities are sometimes needed. The higher spatial resolution of CT can give finer detail of fracture complexity.
CT Advantages
- Fast.Â
- Widespread expertise and availability.
- Repeatable for follow-up.
- High spatial resolution.
CT Disadvantages
- Ionizing radiation. CT exams are now the leading source of non-environmental radiation exposure in the population at large.
MRI Advantages
- Highest sensitivity for almost all pathologies.
MRI Disadvantages
- Availability/expertise.
- Limited by patient motion/cooperation.
- Cost.
- Relatively long imaging times.
- Contraindications.