MRI is short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It's a procedure that is used to scan patients and determine the severity of certain injuries. An MRI machine uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create very detailed images of the body. Some common reasons patients go in to get an MRI are for symptoms such as a sprained ankle or minor to severe back pain. MRI is a safe and painless test that is not quite the same as CT scan because it doesn't use radiation.

The CT scan or "CAT Scan" can reveal details of internal organs that can't be seen with regular X-rays. The X-ray tube spins rapidly around the patient and the X-rays strike numerous detectors after passing through the body. These detectors are connected to sophisticated computers which generate images after image processing. A CT scan has many uses, but is best used to quickly examine patients who may have internal injuries from accidents or other types of trauma. A CT scan can be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and determine where the injury or illness has occurred.

Stop in today or contact Hart Family Care in Ashland, KY to make your next MRI or CT scan appointment.