What is the difference between a bone scan and a CT scan?
A bone scan and a computed tomography (CT) scan are both used to diagnose various bone conditions. The specific use of a bone scan is to diagnose active bone diseases, such as osteoporosis, Paget’s disease or the spread of cancer into the bone. A CT scan is a high-resolution X-ray that gives detailed information about organ anatomy.
Table. The difference between a bone scan and a CT scan
| Differences | Bone scan | CT scan |
| Description | A bone scan is a nuclear imaging test that aids in the diagnosis and tracking of several bone diseases. | A CT scan uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create images of the bones. |
| Type | Nuclear imaging | Noninvasive diagnostic |
| Tools | Uses radioactive materials | Combination of X-ray and computer technology |
| Radiation exposure | There is minimal yet definite risk of radiation exposure | Higher risk of radiation exposure |
| Procedure |
|
|
| Outcomes | It diagnoses active diseases of the bone. | Provides detailed information on bone tissue and bone structure. It also gives information about the injuries and diseases of the bone. |
| Safety | Generally, it is a safe procedure with occasional risks, including:
|
|
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Duration | 30 minutes to one hour | A few minutes to half an hour |
What to expect during a bone scan
You can expect the following procedure during a bone scan
- The procedure will be explained to you and your consent will be recorded.
- The physician will inject a radioactive substance into your vein.
- This substance collects in the bone over time.
- The radioactive substance then emits gamma rays that are picked up by a special camera.
- The signals are processed by a computer and turned into 2D (two-dimensional) or 3D (three-dimensional) pictures.
- A radiologist interprets the images and sends a report to your doctor.
What to expect during a CT scan
You can expect the following procedure during a CT scan
- You are secured to a scan table that slides into a large, round opening of the scanning machine. Pillows and straps may be used to prevent movement during the procedure.
- Once you are inside the machine, the scanner rotates around you. You will be exposed to X-rays for short intervals.
- The X-rays absorbed by body tissues are identified by the scanner and transmitted to the computer. The computer then converts the data into an image to be interpreted by a specialist.
- A CT scan may also be done after injecting a contrast dye to obtain better information.
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