The main difference between a CT scan and an MRI is how the image is created. A CT scan uses radiation and computed tomography to capture images in minutes, making it well-suited for trauma, bleeding, and fractures. An MRI uses a powerful magnetic field for over 20–30 minutes, making it better suited for soft tissue, joints, the brain, and the spine. Your physician determines which is right for you based on what’s being evaluated.
CT scans and MRIs are mentioned together, but they are two different types of studies.
We often hear CT scans and MRIs mentioned together, but they are two different types of tests (or studies) that are used for the diagnosis of various parts of our body.
In fact, a radiologic technologist licensed to perform CT scans is not necessarily trained to perform MRIs—and vice versa. Each requires its own certification to perform. Lumina has techs trained in both imaging techniques.
The biggest difference between a CT scan and an MRI is the use of radiation and a magnetic field.
- A CT scan uses radiation via computed tomography.
- Instead of radiation, an MRI uses a powerful magnet (magnetic resonance imaging).
At a Glance: CT vs MRI Scans
| CT Scan | MRI Scan | |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radiation (computed tomography) | Magnetic field + radio waves |
| Typical scan time | 10 minutes | 20–30 minutes |
| Noise level | Quiet | Loud (earplugs/headphones provided) |
| Best for | Trauma, bleeding, fractures, lung issues, abdominal/pelvic pain | Brain, spine, joints, soft tissue, and neurological conditions |
| Common contraindications | Contrast allergy (contrast studies only) | Contrast allergy (contrast studies only), certain implants, devices, pregnancy, or metallic fragments |
| Cost at Lumina | $350 ($400 with contrast) | $700 ($750 with contrast) |
What to know about CT scans
A CT scan uses radiation to take images of sections of the body. While the idea of radiation may be concerning, the amount emitted is very low. The benefits of a CT scan ordered by your physician are almost always far greater than any risks. Lumina follows dose-reduction protocols established by the American College of Radiology, the same organization that accredits our CT and MRI equipment.
A highly sophisticated and computerized rotating gantry (that’s the moveable framework on the equipment) is used to take cross-sectional images of the body part. The actual scan time is usually less than a minute, while it may take several minutes to properly position the patient, enter data and plan the scanning.
A physician may order a CT scan when looking for or assessing the following:
- Stroke and intracranial bleed in cases of trauma and severe headache
- Spine fractures
- Better sensitivity for extremity and pelvic fractures than routine X-rays
- Lung problems such as cancer, trauma, pneumonia, nodules (lump), interstitial diseases (progressive scarring of lung tissue)
- Blood or lymph vessels
- Coronary artery calcium screening
- Abdominal and pelvic pain or trauma, detection of cancers and various other pathologies
- Many other indications
Explore Lumina’s CT scan services to see pricing, comfort features, and locations.
Preparing for a CT scan
Most CT scans require little preparation. If your scan involves contrast, you may be asked to avoid food for a few hours beforehand and to remove jewelry or other metal objects. Your technologist will review any specific instructions with you before your appointment.
What to know about MRIs
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a medical imaging technique that uses a powerful magnetic field and highly complex computer system to create high-contrast resolution images of any part of your body.
MRI machines are large, tube-shaped machines. They are somewhat noisy, so patients wear earplugs or headphones to reduce noise exposure. At Lumina, we play music to help patients relax and feel more comfortable during their MRI. Additionally, the MRI machines at Lumina are wider than other machines in the market providing the best experience for those who may not like small spaces. In some cases we can even perform your study feet-first to alleviate any additional stress.
If claustrophobia is a concern, our full guide to managing MRI anxiety has more tips for a more comfortable scan.
An MRI is more time-intensive than a CT scan. It takes about 20-30 minutes and requires the patient to lie completely still during that time. Patients must undergo a screening questionnaire with the technologist to rule out contraindications, which are medical reasons an MRI cannot be performed. Metallic foreign bodies in the eye, certain medical devices and some other conditions prevent patients from getting MRIs.
A physician may order an MRI scan when looking for or assessing the following:
- Neurological disorders like epilepsy, multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke, brain tumors, aneurysms, etc.
- Pain in the neck and back to evaluate for disc herniations, facet problems (arthritis-like condition) and neural compression (squeezed or compacted nerves)
- Detailed evaluation of the liver, pancreas, kidneys and many other organs for pathologies such as cancer
- Chronic pain in the knee, shoulder, ankle, hips etc. or to look for ligament injuries in acute trauma
- Any other indications as evaluated by your medical provider
Learn more about Lumina’s MRI scan services, including comfort features and locations.
Preparing for an MRI
Before your MRI, you’ll complete a screening questionnaire to check for pacemakers, certain implants, or other metal that could make an MRI unsafe. Plan to remove jewelry, hairpins, and other metal items, and let your technologist know about any concerns regarding enclosed spaces.
How much do CT scans and MRIs cost at Lumina?
Lumina uses transparent, flat-fee pricing for both CT and MRI services, with no hidden facility fees. A CT scan starts at $350 ($400 with contrast) and an MRI starts at $700 ($750 with contrast). Visit our pricing page for current rates and insurance information.
Lumina Partners with Physicians on Your Care
Some conditions can be evaluated by either CT or MRI, however, typically one method of treatment is superior to the other. They have their own strengths and limitations. Usually one or the other will be chosen, but sometimes, both a CT scan and MRI are required.
Your physician is in the best position to decide which imaging technique is appropriate to guide the management of your healthcare problem. And the technologists and radiologists at Lumina will coordinate with your physician to guide the imaging method and protocol to ensure you receive the right imaging study for your needs.
Whichever test you need, Lumina can help! We provide a comfortable experience for patients and quick results for providers, so you can get a diagnosis and treatment underway.
Contact our team or find a Lumina location near you to get started.
Is a CT scan or an MRI faster?
A CT scan is significantly faster than an MRI. The actual CT scan usually can be as short as 10 minutes once entering the CT room, while an MRI takes about 20–30 minutes because the patient must remain still throughout the study.
Does an MRI use radiation like a CT scan?
No. An MRI uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create images, with no radiation involved. A CT scan does use a small, carefully controlled dose of radiation.
Can I have an MRI if I have metal in my body?
It depends on the type of metal. Certain implants, devices, or metallic fragments (especially in the eye) can make an MRI unsafe. You’ll complete a screening questionnaire with your Lumina staff before your appointment to confirm it’s safe to proceed.
Will I feel claustrophobic during an MRI?
Some patients feel anxious inside the MRI’s tube-shaped scanner. Lumina uses some of the widest MRI machines available, plays music during scans, and can perform some studies feet-first to ease discomfort. See our full guide to managing MRI claustrophobia for more tips.
How much more does an MRI cost than a CT scan at Lumina?
Lumina’s flat-fee pricing is $350 for a CT scan ($400 with contrast) and $700 for an MRI ($750 with contrast), with no hidden facility fees. View current pricing for full details and insurance information.
How do I know whether I need a CT scan or an MRI?
Your physician determines which test is appropriate based on the condition being evaluated. Lumina’s technologists and radiologists coordinate directly with your provider to ensure you receive the right imaging study and protocol.
