What are the uses and advantages of a MRI scan other types of scans?

MRI scanners are good at looking at the non-bony parts or "soft tissues" of the body. I

n particular, the brain, spinal cord and nerves are seen much more clearly with MRI than with regular x-rays and CAT scans.

Also, muscles, ligaments and tendons are seen quite well so that MRI scans are commonly used to look at knees and shoulders following injuries.

A MRI scanner uses no x-rays or other radiation. A disadvantage of MRI is it’s higher cost compared to a regular x-ray or CAT scan. Also, CAT scans are frequently better at looking at the bones that MRI.