When it comes to making a diagnosis of a medical condition, physicians have a variety of imaging tests available to them. An ultrasound, or sonography, is a safe and relatively inexpensive imaging technique that has become an integral part of modern healthcare. In comparison to a CT scan, which is a more complex and costly test, an ultrasound is often the first imaging test a doctor should order.
The primary difference between an ultrasound and a CT scan is the way in which each test creates an image. Ultrasound uses sound waves and a computer to create a picture, while a CT scan uses X-rays. An ultrasound is non-invasive and does not require radiation, making it a preferred choice when diagnosing conditions in both children and pregnant women. Additionally, an ultrasound requires no preparation and can be completed in a matter of minutes.
In contrast to an ultrasound, a CT scan is a more complex imaging test that requires the patient to be exposed to radiation. Due to the radiation exposure, a CT scan should be reserved for imaging tests that are unable to be completed with an ultrasound. Additionally, a CT scan requires the patient to drink a solution containing a radioactive material, which can be uncomfortable and can take up to two hours to complete.
When diagnosing a medical condition, an ultrasound should be the first imaging test a doctor orders. This imaging technique is non-invasive, requires no preparation, and can be completed in a matter of minutes. Additionally, an ultrasound does not require the patient to be exposed to radiation, making it the preferred choice when imaging pregnant women and children. In comparison to a CT scan, an ultrasound is a safer and more cost-effective imaging test.
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