Introduction

Medical imaging plays a crucial role in modern healthcare, helping doctors diagnose conditions accurately and plan treatments effectively. However, misinformation and myths about imaging tests often cause unnecessary fear and confusion. Understanding the facts can help patients make informed decisions about their health.

The most common medical imaging techniques include:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues.
• CT (Computed Tomography): Combines multiple X-ray images to create cross-sectional views of the body.
• X-ray: Low-dose radiation is used to capture images, mainly of bones.‍
• Ultrasound: Utilizes high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal structures without radiation exposure.

Let's clear up some common myths surrounding these imaging techniques.
‍
‍

Myths About MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

1. MRI Uses Harmful Radiation

Fact: This is a misconception—MRI scans do not use ionizing radiation like X-rays or CT scans. Instead, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) relies on powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues, organs, and joints.

Because MRI does not expose patients to radiation, it is considered a saferalternative for individuals who need frequent imaging or those at higher risk from radiation exposure, such as pregnant women and children.

2. Metal Objects Always Cause Harm in MRI Machines

Fact: Not all metals pose a risk. Many medical implants, such as titanium-based devices, are MRI-safe. However, certain objects, like pacemakers or metal fragments, may cause complications and require careful screening. You should disclose all your metal implants to your doctor before an MRI scan.

3. MRI Is Only for Brain Scans

Fact: MRI is used to image various body parts, including joints, the spine, the heart, and internal organs. It provides high-resolution images of soft tissues that other imaging techniques may not capture as effectively.

4. MRI Contrast Agents Are Bad for the Kidneys

Fact: Most MRI contrast agents, like gadolinium, are safe for people with normal kidney function. However, those with severe kidney disease may require an alternative or additional evaluation.

5. An MRI is the Same Wherever You Get It

Clarification: MRI quality depends on machine strength (measured in Tesla units) and the expertise of the radiology team. A well-equipped facility with experienced professionals provides clearer images and better diagnoses.

6. I Can't Get an MRI Scan Because I'm Claustrophobic

Solution: Some centres offer open or wide-bore MRI machines that provide a more comfortable experience. Sedation options are also available for patients with severe claustrophobia.

Myths About CT (Computed Tomography) Scans

1. CT Scans Are Extremely Dangerous Due to Radiation

Fact: While CT scans do use ionizing radiation, the level of exposure is carefully controlled and kept within medically safe limits. Modern low-dose CT technology has significantly reduced radiation exposure, ensuring that patients receive the minimum necessary dose for accurate imaging.

Doctors only recommend a CT scan when its diagnostic benefits outweigh any potential risks. CT scans are crucial for early disease detection, assessing internal injuries, and guiding life-saving treatments for conditions such as cancer, infections, vascular diseases, and fractures. In many cases, the ability to detect and treat a serious condition early far outweighs the minimal radiation exposure from the scan.

2. Getting a CT Scan Will Give Me Cancer

Fact: This is a common misconception. CT scans are essential diagnostic tools that help detect and monitor a wide range of medical conditions, including tumours, infections, internal injuries, and vascular diseases. While CT scans do use ionizing radiation, exposure is carefully controlled and not high enough to directly cause cancer.

3. Contrast Dye Used in CT Scans Causes Allergic Reactions in Everyone

Explanation: Most people tolerate contrast agents well. Severe allergic reactions are rare, and patients with allergies are screened and given pre-medication if necessary

4. CT Scans Cost Way More Than MRIs .

Fact: Costs vary depending on location and facility. In many cases, CT scans are more affordable than MRI scans, especially for emergency or routine evaluations.

‍

Myths About X-Rays

1. X-Rays Always Cause Cancer

Fact: The radiation dose in a standard X-ray is minimal. For most people, the risk is negligible, especially when weighed against the diagnostic benefits.

2. Pregnant Women Should Never Have X-Rays

Fact: While unnecessary radiation exposure should be avoided during pregnancy, doctors assess the risk carefully. Low-dose X-rays with proper shielding are sometimes safe when medically necessary.

3. X-Rays Can See Everything Inside the Body

Clarification:X-rays are excellent for bones and detecting fractures but have limitations in imaging soft tissues and internal organs.

4. All X-Ray Scanners Are Harmful

Fact: Modern X-ray machines use controlled doses of radiation, ensuring patient safety during routine scans.

‍

Myths About Ultrasound

1. Ultrasound Uses Harmful Radiation Like X-rays

Fact: This is a misconception—ultrasound does not use radiation like X-rays or CT scans. Instead, it relies on high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal organs, tissues, and blood flow. Because ultrasound is radiation-free, it is considered one of the safest imaging techniques, making it ideal for pregnant women, infants, and routine diagnostic evaluations.

2. Ultrasounds Are Only for Pregnancy

Fact: While commonly used during pregnancy, ultrasound scans help diagnose conditions related to the heart, liver, kidneys, and blood vessels.

3. 3D/4D Ultrasounds Are Better for Diagnosing Medical Conditions

Explanation: While 3D/4D ultrasounds provide detailed images for parents, 2D ultrasounds remain the gold standard for medical diagnoses.

4. Ultrasounds Can Cause Miscarriages

Fact: There is no scientific evidence that ultrasound scans cause miscarriages or harm the fetus.

5. Ultrasounds Can Immediately Detect the Sex of the Child

Fact: Gender detection depends on fetal positioning, gestational age, and scan quality. It is not always immediate or guaranteed.

‍

General Myths About Medical Imaging

1. Imaging Scans Always Provide a Definite Diagnosis

Fact: While imaging scans play a crucial role in detecting abnormalities and guiding diagnoses, they do not always provide a definitive diagnosis on their own. Scans such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound help identify tumours, fractures, organ damage, or infections, but further clinical correlation and additional tests are often required for confirmation.

Why Imaging Alone May Not Be Enough:

• Overlapping Conditions: Some diseases may appear similar on scans, requiring biopsies, lab tests, or functional imaging for clarity.
• Non-Specific Findings: A scan may show a mass, cyst, or lesion, but only a biopsy or specialized testing can determine if it is benign or malignant.
• Medical History Matters: Doctors interpret imaging results in combination with patient symptoms, medical history, and physical examinations to ensure accurate diagnoses.

2. More Imaging Scans Mean Better Diagnosis

Fact: Unnecessary imaging can lead to increased costs, unnecessary exposure, and incidental findings that may cause unwarranted anxiety.

3. All Imaging Tests Are Painful

Explanation: Most imaging techniques are painless and non-invasive. While some scans may require contrast injections, discomfort is minimal.

‍

Conclusion

Medical imaging is a powerful tool in modern healthcare, but myths and misconceptions often create unnecessary fear. Understanding the facts helps patients make informed decisions and trust medical professionals. If you have concerns about an imaging scan, always consult your doctor: they can guide you toward the best option for your health needs.

For accurate, reliable imaging, trust GetScanned to connect you with high-quality scan centres at the best prices.

Fast, accurate, and affordable imaging—Book with GetScanned now!

FAQ

1. Is MRI Safe During Pregnancy?

Answer: MRI is generally considered safe during pregnancy, particularly after the first trimester. However, it is only recommended when medically necessary.

2. Does an MRI Scan Expose You to Radiation?

Answer: No, MRI does not use radiation. It relies on magnetic fields and radio waves.

3. Are There Any Long-Term Risks of MRI Scans?

Answer: There are no known long-term risks associated with MRI scans when used appropriately.

4. Can Radiation Exposure Cause Cancer?

Answer: High doses of ionising radiation can increase cancer risk, but controlled exposure from medical imaging is considered safe. This depends on several factors including the frequency of scans as well. 

5. How Many CT Scans Per Year Are Safe?

Answer: There is no strict limit, but doctors aim to minimise unnecessary radiation exposure. A risk-benefit assessment is done before recommending multiple CT scans.

6. Does an Ultrasound Use Radiation?

Answer: No, ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, making it safe for all ages, including pregnant women.

7. Does MRI cause cancer?

No, MRI scans do not cause cancer because they use non-ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays or CT scans, which use ionizing radiation.