Advice On Brain CT, MRI And PET Scans

by jtrombetti

posted on 06/25/2009

If your doctor or neurologist tells you you need a Brain CT Scan (Computed Tomography) or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), I would begin by asking if the procedure(s) will benefit you and the problem you are experiencing. Ask about the risks involved, because -- for example- if you are claustrophobic, you may need to be given a mild sedative to help you stay quiet during an MRI. CT scans carry a risk of radiation overdosing -- however, most physicians and hospitals now adhere to guidelines promoting using the lowest possible dose.

An MRI or CT will give a physical and detailed image of your brain. If you suffer from a stroke, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, head injury, multiple sclerosis, or a brain tumor -- one or the other might be recommended.

Anyone who has suffered a brain injury will usually be tested for damage and trauma by CT scan. The scan will show if there is blood on the brain. Others who show signs of memory loss, tremors or stroke may also need an MRI or CT scan to see what treatment would be best suited for them.

The best thing about CT Scans and MRIs is that they are relatively new technology that are fast and noninvasive. A CT scan takes about five minutes and an MRI takes about 45 minutes. They are digital and can be read immediately by a physician and results can be shared with the patient and perhaps other referring physicians involved in the case.

There is another scan that is also used known as PET (Positron Emission Tomography). A PET scan is molecular imaging and can explain the biochemistry of a disease. PET scans are frequently used on brain tumor patients and patients with Alzheimer's disease.

These tests are definitely opening doors and are helping physicians understand brain disease and injury on a much higher level. Research using results from CT, MRI and PET scan testing is helping physicians look at who is more likely to develop chronic disease involving the brain and hopefully -- one day -- this research will lead to preventing many debilitating brain diseases and faster ways to treat brain injuries.

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