Ultrasound and CT scans are the two most popular medical tools that are widely used for creating images. Even though both of them are used for various diagnostic purposes by doctors, they are not the same and each has its own job. And here is everything you need to know.

What is an UltraSound?

An imaging test that uses sound waves to create a picture of tissues, organs and other structures inside the body is known as an ultrasound. It doesn’t have any radiation and shows parts of the body in motion.

However, there are two categories of ultrasounds- pregnancy ultrasound and diagnostic ultrasound. Depending on the type of ultrasound and which part of the body is being checked, ultrasound can be used in different ways.

What is a CT Scan?

Computed tomography or CT Scan is a diagnostic tool that is used for detecting diseases and injuries. It is painless and takes pictures to represent the very thin slices of bones, organs, muscles and blood vessels. It is more often an outpatient procedure and takes about 10 to 30 minutes.

Is Ultrasound and CT Scan the same?

Considering ultrasound and CT Scan as the same? Simply the answer is no! So if you’re thinking that both of them do the same work then here are some differences you need to know about ultrasound in Narellan and CT Scan :

• Radiation exposure- The effective radiation dose from CT ranges from 2 to 10 mSv. With ultrasounds, there is no radiation exposure.
• Cost- CT Scans can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $3,200 and are usually less expensive than MRIs. However, it cost more than an ultrasound procedure. On the other hand, the cost of an ultrasound procedure may range from $100 to $1,000.
• Time-taken- CT Scan usually gets completed within 5 minutes. The average scan time is less than 30 seconds. On the other hand, a routine ultrasound usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
• Soft tissue details- CT Scan has the ability to image bone, blood vessels and soft tissues all at the same time. It is done by combining many photos of the same region taken from various perspectives to create a 3-D picture of the targeted area.

On the other hand, ultrasound Narellan is very good but comes with some limitations. Basically, they are ordered for images of any bone structures. Also more often they are used in prenatal care and to image internal organs.

How do I prepare for UltraSound and CT Scan?

• UltraSound- For ultrasound, the preparation will vary depending on the type of ultrasonography. You may need to fill up your bladder before an abdominal ultrasound such as a pregnancy ultrasound. It includes not going to the bathroom for two to three hours before the test and drinking 2 to 3 glasses of water.

However, other ultrasounds in Narellan may require you to change your diet or even fast for several hours before your appointment. While some ultrasounds do not require any preparation. In such cases, you may ask your healthcare practitioner for information.

• CT Scan- For CT Scan, you may change into a patient gown and a locker will be provided for personal belongings. This is because you’ll need to remove all accessories. If you’re allergic then you may need to inform your doctor.

For CT Scan without contrast, you can eat as well as drink. And with contrast, you need not eat anything three hours prior to CT Scan. However, you can drink clear liquids.