Question frequently arise regarding the utilization of CT versus MRI scans to obtain the best diagnostic outcome for the patient, in general, MRI is the procedure of choice for all neurologic and orthopedic diagnosis, while CT is the preferred modality for examining the chest, abdomen, pelvis, and skull base. Note that CT and MRI can also be used in crossover problem solving from the alternative modality.

• Brain for tumor, mass, stroke, multiple sclerosis, etc.
• All spinal cord, spine, and vertebral applications.
• For older patients CT may be substitute, as degenerative change is more of a factor than disc protrusion.
• All orbit, sensoryneural hearing loss, pituitary, and cranial nerve applications.
• All joints.
  • From fingers to toes
  • Includes soft tissue tumors and injury

• MRI (frequently with contrast) generally preferred for cancer staging.
• CT preferred for examining larynx (glottis), stones mandible/maxilla invasion, thyroid.

• MRI can assist contraindicated as in renal function concerns or significant contrast reaction history.
• The use of Gadolinium bolus MRI examination of liver and kidneys is equivalent to CT with contrast, and adds another parameter to the exam.

• MRI is considered the most accurate non-invasive imaging technique for determining presence, location and size of uterine fibroids.
• MRI may provide additional information of ultrasound and CT finding are nondiagnostic.

• For acute intracranial hemorrhage.
• Preferred for diagnosis of sinusitis, otitis, conductive hearing loss, erosion

• Preferred modality for cancer, pneumonia, and abnormal chest x-ray
• High resolution 1-2 mm sections used for examining interstitial lung disease and solitary pulmonary nodules
• MRI can be used for the mediastinum if CT contrast is contraindicated

• Used for cancer staging, abnormal mass or pain, kidneys and collective systems, gall bladder.