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  • MRI versus CT scan

    Hey everyone, another question: when it comes to disc problems, which is preferable, an MRI or a CT scan? I have only had a CT scan. My mother is wondering if an MRI would be more appropriate, and I think the reason that my GP did not request it is because there is a VERY long waiting list and would probably take about a year to get. Is a CT scan fine for discs, or does an MRI show things that a CT scan does not?

    Kathryn

  • #2
    Hi Ya Katheryn,

    The Discogram is what my Dr. used for diagnosis of the shape my discs were in. You can read the post "Discogram" By Debbie and get an idea what it's like. I also had an MRI but that wasn't specificly for looking at my discs. Hope all is well.

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    • #3
      Over here in Australia a General Practitioner is only able to order a CT Scan and a Specialist an MRI Scan because of the actual cost. They dont cost the patient a great deal but the government subsidises them.

      The MRIs are meant to be better but for disc problems a disco gram would be a good idea like Suzy mentioned and also sufficient I think.

      The above is only my opinion.

      Macky
      Operation 1966, Fused from T4 to L3, had Harrington rods inserted. Originally had an 85 degree Thoracic curve with lumbar scoliosis as well but had a good correction.
      Perfectly normal life till 1997 but now in a lot of pain daily. Consider myself very fortunate though.

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      • #4
        Hi Kathryn...

        I think that both exams visualize discs fairly well. I believe CT scans are less expensive than MRIs.

        --Linda
        Never argue with an idiot. They always drag you down to their level, and then they beat you with experience. --Twain
        ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Surgery 2/10/93 A/P fusion T4-L3
        Surgery 1/20/11 A/P fusion L2-sacrum w/pelvic fixation

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        • #5
          Just reading up on Discograms and they are not painful in some cases and in others very painful. I think I would actually go to a specialist, although I know you have by one of your other posts, and just tell him you are still a bit worried about your curve and request an MRI, that is if you can do that where you live.
          We have a great Health system here in Australia. A specialist would not have a problem ordering an MRI for people as Linda is correct they are much more expensive.
          Not necessarily the last specialist you went to either it would be good to get a second opinion Wakatie as I can tell you are still worried. Remember too it is your body and your right to follow through with whatever you need to do to have a satisfactory result and to put your mind at rest.

          The above is my opinion only,
          Macky
          Operation 1966, Fused from T4 to L3, had Harrington rods inserted. Originally had an 85 degree Thoracic curve with lumbar scoliosis as well but had a good correction.
          Perfectly normal life till 1997 but now in a lot of pain daily. Consider myself very fortunate though.

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