MRI and ultrasound are key imaging diagnostic techniques that revolutionized the healthcare industry. The principle of working of both these diagnostic tests is different but the impact in diagnostic purpose remains unmatchable.
MRI and ultrasound are key imaging diagnostic techniques that revolutionized the healthcare industry. The principle of working of both these diagnostic tests is different but the impact in diagnostic purpose remains unmatchable. MRI is the short form of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and works on the principle of magnetic fields for detecting abnormalities. Ultrasound diagnostic procedure works on sound waves, which help to detect abnormalities in the body. Both these diagnostic procedures are imaging techniques which help to produce high quality images of diagnostic area and help to detect abnormalities in the body. These images are real-time, which provides the current situation of abnormality that can be very useful in preparing customized and effect treatment for patient. Ultrasound is preferred during pregnancy because it is safe for unborn baby and can have no risk of radiation exposure. MRI on the other hand is also radiation free but cannot be used in the patients having metallic implants.
What is MRI?
MRI is the short form of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a diagnostic procedure using magnetic fields for the detection of abnormalities. MRI is very useful and effective in detecting abnormalities in soft tissues like muscles, brain, spinal cord etc. MRI produces detailed images of the abnormal area, which is very suitable for effective treatment of the condition. MRI is preferred because this diagnostic procedure does not involve any kind of radiation exposure.
Features of MRI:
- MRI is used to provide high quality images
- MRI is very effective in soft tissues like brain, muscles, spinal abnormalities
- MRI is effective in providing 3D images for easy and early detection of abnormality.
- Sometimes contrast dye is used to highlight specific areas.
Uses of MRI Common:
- MRI is effective in detecting abnormalities of brain and spinal cord
- MRI is very helpful in detecting and evaluating musculoskeletal abnormalities
- MRI can detect tumors, cancer, kidney diseases, liver abnormalities etc.
- MRI is helpful in heart conditions like detecting the damage or susceptibility of heart damage.
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is very simple, effective and affordable diagnostic procedure which uses sound waves for the detection of abnormalities in the body. Ultrasound is done with the machine attached with transducer, which produces sound waves. These sound waves after reflected back from organs help to create images, which is helpful in diagnosis of abnormalities in the body.
Features of Ultrasound:
- Ultrasound is safe
- Ultrasound in affordable diagnostic procedure comparing other MRI and PET CT scan
- Ultrasound diagnostic procedure is widely available
- It helps to produce real time images of the body
- Ultrasound does not involve any radiation exposure
- It is quick comparing MRI and PET CT
- Preferred during pregnancy
Uses of Ultrasound Common
- It is helpful in monitoring the pregnancy
- Can monitor fetal growth till delivery
- Helpful in kindney stones
- Can detect gall stones
- Helpful in detecting heart function
- Non-invasive procedure and safe
Differences between MRI and Ultrasound
|
S. No. |
Feature |
MRI |
Ultrasound |
|
1 |
Technology Used |
Magnetic field and radio waves |
High frequency radio waves |
|
2 |
Imaging Detail |
Detailed and precise images of soft tissues, organs and nervous system |
Real time images of organs but with less detail comparing MRI |
|
3 |
Radiation |
No radiation involved |
No radiation Involved |
|
4 |
Suitable for |
Brain, spinal cord, tumors |
Pregnancy monitoring, gallstones, heart evaluation |
|
5 |
Cost |
MRI is Expensive |
Affordable comparing MRI |
|
6 |
Time |
30 - 90 minutes |
10 – 30 minutes |
|
7 |
Portability |
Large machines cannot be portable |
Small and portable machine |
|
8 |
Safety |
Not safe for patients with metallic implants and peace makers |
Safe for all and even for pregnant women |
|
9 |
Real-Time Imaging |
Provides static and cross sectional images |
Provides real time images of organs with movement |
|
10 |
Availability |
Limited availability at specialized hospital or diagnostic centers |
Widely available in various diagnostic centers |
Advantages of MRI
- Produces highly detailed images of soft tissues.
- Excellent for brain, spine, and musculoskeletal imaging.
- No radiation exposure.
- Helpful in detecting minute abnormalities or tumors
- Has the ability to provide 3D images
Advantages of Ultrasound
- Completely safe with no radiation risk.
- Quick and affordable.
- Provides real-time imaging.
- Portable and widely available.
- Ideal for pregnancy and emergency care.
Limitations of MRI
- MRI is expensive when compared with ultrasound technique
- Patients having metallic implants are not suitable for this procedure or patient with fear of closed small spaces
- MRI machines loud noises and takes large time for diagnostic procedure
- Limited availability in smaller centers.
Limitations of Ultrasound
- Lower resolution compared to MRI.
- Images may be unclear in obese patients.
- Limited in evaluating certain deep or complex structures.
- Accuracy of detection depends on the skill of healthcare expert.
Cost of MRI in Delhi NCR
MRI cost in Delhi depends on type of MRI patient is going for and whether contrast is used or not. The cost of MRI can range from INR 2,500 and can go up to INR 30,000.
Click Here for the price of any type of MRI in Delhi NCR.
Cost of Ultrasound in Delhi NCR
Ultrasound cost in Delhi depends on type of Ultrasound patient is going for and whether contrast is used or not. The cost of Ultrasound can range from INR 500 and can go up to INR 5,000.
Click Here for the price of any type of Ultrasound in Delhi NCR.
List of MRI scans and Ultrasound scans available at Ganesh Diagnostic Center
MRI Scans
- MRI Head Screening (Book Now)
- MRI Screening of Brain (Book Now)
- MRI Screening Cervical Spine (Book Now)
- MRI Face & Neck (Book Now)
- MRI Lower Abdomen (Book Now)
Click Here to any type of MRI Scan
Ultrasound Scans
Ultrasound Chest (Book Now)
Ultrasound TVS (Book Now)
Ultrasound Prostate (Book Now)
Ultrasound Abdomen (Book Now)
Ultrasound Testis (Book Now)
Click Here to any type of Ultrasound Scan
Conclusion
MRI and Ultrasound are diagnostic procedures used for the detection of abnormalities without exposure to radiations. MRI is helpful in detecting soft tissue abnormalities where are ultrasound is helpful during pregnancy and help to monitor the development of fetus. There are various advantages and disadvantages of the MRI and Ultrasound techniques of diagnosis. Doctor can recommend a particular diagnostic procedure after assessing the history of the patient and its current condition. Ultrasound is more widely used comparing MRI because of its affordability, portability and easy to use. Both these diagnostic procedures are imaging techniques which help to produce high quality images of diagnostic area and help to detect abnormalities in the body. These images are real-time, which provides the current situation of abnormality that can be very useful in preparing customized and effect treatment for patient. Ultrasound is preferred during pregnancy because it is safe for unborn baby and can have no risk of radiation exposure.
