MRI vs CT scan
Both produce cross section images of the body, but they work in different ways and answer different questions.
| MRI | CT | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Strong magnet and radio waves | X-rays taken from many angles |
| Radiation | None | Yes (ionising radiation) |
| Time in the scanner | Usually 20 to 45 minutes | Usually 5 to 15 minutes |
| Best for | Brain, spinal cord, nerves, ligaments, cartilage, soft tissue, many abdominal and pelvic organs | Bleeding, bone injury, lungs, kidney stones, emergencies, cancer staging |
| Noise and space | Loud, and you lie inside a tunnel | Quiet, short open ring |
| Metal and implants | Must be checked first; some implants are unsafe | Usually no problem |
| Average Kathmandu price | NPR 9,500 (brain) | NPR 4,200 (head, plain) |
When MRI is usually chosen
MRI shows soft tissue in great detail. It is the usual choice for the brain (for example multiple sclerosis or epilepsy), the spinal cord and nerve roots, knee and shoulder ligaments, and many liver, pelvic and prostate questions.
When CT is usually chosen
CT is fast and widely available, so it is the standard first test after a head injury, a suspected stroke or a serious accident. It is also excellent for lungs (HRCT chest), kidney stones (CT KUB), bony detail and staging many cancers.
Radiation
A CT scan gives a radiation dose that is small for a single scan but higher than a plain X-ray. Doctors weigh this against the benefit of the information. MRI and ultrasound use no ionising radiation. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant before either test.
MRI prices and CT prices
Common questions
Can I choose an MRI instead of a CT?
Which is cheaper in Kathmandu?
Does MRI use radiation?
Reviewed 10/2026. General information only, not medical advice.