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How much of radiation is ct neck scan?
I have taken 6 different digital dental x-rays, 6 pan xrays, 3 dental CBCT scan so far since June. I have lower jaw pain under ear and neck. Don't know the diagnosis yet. Went to GP, neurologist, oral surgeon, Endodontist, dentists, ENT.
My GP ordered neck soft tissue CT scan with contrast now. Can I do that ct scan? I have taken many dental CT scan before since June. Will that be harmful to take another CT within short span of time? So many radiation in last 7 months.
How much radiation expected from ct neck? And what about contrast material? Is ct contrast harmful?how long does it stay in system?
I saw a neurologist and he told me to take MRI for brain with contrast to check if any nerve issue. I read that MRI will not have radiation. Whether mri contrast material ok or harmful? Will it stay in the brain after imaging?
Does ct soft tissue of neck with contrast show any nerves ? Do I need to do both?
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A significant difference between CT and MRI scans is that CT scans expose patients to ionizing radiation, while an MRI does not. The amount of radiation used during this test is higher than the amount used in an x-ray.
There are a number of factors that determine the impact of the radiation from a CT scan:
the dose of the radiation
the frequency of exposure
a patient’s age
a patient’s gender
the size of the patient
the specific design of the scanner being used
The low level of radiation that a patient is exposed to during a CT scan is measured in units called millisieverts (mSv). According to the United States Nuclear Regulatory Committee, a person’s average annual exposure from natural sources is 3.1msv. During a CT scan of the head, a patient is exposed to 2mSv; less than the yearly amount of natural exposure.2
This is acceptable because the human body can naturally repair this amount of radiation damage in one year.
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If your consultant physician has asked for a CT, then there is probably need for one. Also, he/she would have analysed the risks/rewards ratio.
CT is better in diagnosing bone related issues, in addition to soft tissue problems, than an MRI.
Although it is true that multiple exposure to medical radiation (including CT) can slightly increase the chance of developing Cancers, the risk is very slight, and most often almost nil.
As far as Contrast is concerned, it is safe to use unless you have a known allergic history or are a kidney/liver/cardiac patient.
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In short, consult a well experienced clinician and if he suggests another CT/MRI with contrast, be assured that he have analysed the benefits to outweigh risks. Just go for it.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.