What is the difference between an MRI and CAT scan?
MRI does not use x-rays like a CT (computed tomography) scan. With a CT x-rays are sent through the body, one slice at a time. The computer can then construct information and create images of the body. MRI involves sending safe levels of electromagnetic waves, such as those used in radio transmission, in a safe magnetic environment. The coils then sends out tiny radio waves back to a computer recorder. The different cells in the body can then in turn create their own signal with each molecule having its own radio frequency. The computer can tell the many differences between the wavelengths of the radio waves and using that information can create an image of the body, one slice at a time.
