When Do You Need an X‑Ray Instead of an MRI or CT?

MRI scans, CT scans, and X-rays all have their place and are all valuable imaging diagnostics to use when diagnosing and treating a patient’s condition. That said, they achieve different results and are typically used to acquire distinct types of information. Your provider will let you know which test will yield the most useful results for your situation. Here we will address some of the key reasons why you may need an X-ray instead of an MRI or CT scan.

Defining Imaging Diagnostics Terms

Before we give use case recommendations for an X-ray, let’s start by defining these three commonly used diagnostic imaging tests.

• X-ray: Non-invasive, electromagnetic radiation wavelengths pass through the layers in the human body, are absorbed by dense materials like bones, and result in an accurate shadow-like image of the internal structures of a given area inside the body
• MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technology that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create three-dimensional images of organs, tissues, bones, muscles, blood vessels, and other internal structures
• CT: Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a painless and non-invasive test, similar to X-ray imaging technique, but including numerous images taken at a range of angles to create very detailed three-dimensional images of internal structures in the body

All of these types of tests have their advantages and disadvantages and are best suited to specific conditions and provider inquiries. Regardless of the type of test done at our facilities, you can trust that the medical team at Advantage Diagnostics will efficiently review results and relay their findings to your physician.

When To Use X-Ray

So, when are X-ray imaging diagnostics the preferred choice? In general, patients will need an X-ray instead of an MRI scan or CT when the suspected issue involves bones, dense foreign objects, or pneumonia in the lungs. The range of bone-related conditions that an X-ray can reveal includes fractures, dislocations, alignment problems, tumors, and bone density.

X-rays are also readily used as the exposure to radiation is lower than with CT scans, so for those who regularly need to monitor a condition, an X-ray test may be considered to be safer. They are also typically more affordable and can offer physicians a quick, safe, low-cost way to get a preliminary idea of a patient’s condition before considering more advanced imaging diagnostics. That said, if soft tissues, spinal discs, ligaments, nerves and organs are involved, or if the situation is more complex than what an X-ray can show, MRI scans or a CT scan may still be necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This article has more information about the difference between an MRI and a CT scan.

X-rays are best used in the following situations:

• broken or altered bones
• pneumonia and other respiratory infections 
• arthritis
• scoliosis

What To Expect During An X-Ray?

The X-ray process is generally smooth and well-tolerated by patients. It only requires that patients wear comfortable clothing or a provided gown and either sit or stand still or lay still on a table. Patients may need to move slightly to capture images from different angles, and they may be asked to hold their breath momentarily to prevent blurred images. Other than that, the test is non-invasive, does not cause pain or discomfort, and is generally uneventful. Once results have been interpreted by our radiologists, they will share their findings with your referring physician.

Advantage Diagnostics Is Your Local Imaging Diagnostics Provider

Whether your healthcare provider orders CT or MRI scans, an X-ray or ultrasound, the professional team of radiology specialists at Advantage Diagnostics is here to help. Feel free to contact us at any of our locations prior to your scheduled X-ray if you have questions about necessary preparations. If you are unable to schedule ahead of time, walkins are always available for X-ray tests at both of our locations–all we need from you is a physician’s order. We look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness and recovery.