Computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to obtain images of the body's internal structures in order to make a proper diagnosis or assess the situation and determine an appropriate treatment plan.

CT scans use a rotating X-ray unit in combination with a computer to create detailed, cross-sectional images (slices) of the inside of the body. CT scans are non-invasive, painless and provide greater clarity than the overlapping images resulting from traditional X-ray exams.

MRI scans use a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed images of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures.

Both of these procedures are non-invasive and painless. They are offered 24-hours a day, 7 days a week at Littleton Adventist Hospital and can produce results in approximately 30 to 60 minutes.

CT and MRI scans are similar in that they both use a large, tubular machine to create a magnetic field around the patient's body. Images are taken as radio waves to produce faint signals on the water molecules inside the patient's body, which become aligned due to the magnetic field produced by the machine. The images are taken in cross-sectional slices and later digitally reassembled to create a detailed 3-dimensional image of the inside of the body. 

Kitty Orchard MRI Lead	Chris Burdette CT Lead