What is better MRI or CT scan to examine a mass in the abdomen?

Posted by charlotte12 @charlotte12, Apr 13 8:45am

A mass was felt in my abdomen. The FCP ordered an ultrasound, followed by an MRI. The mass appears to connect by stalk to the
posterior uterus. This may be a fibroid. There is a oval cyst with
abnormal enhancing soft tissue. Would a CT scan be helpful
to get more information. I'm scheduled for surgery.

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Lori, Volunteer Mentor | @loribmt | Apr 13 1:06pm

Hi @charlotte12, I’m sure this is a very stressful time for you right now with pending surgery. Your doctor ordered an ultrasound and an MRI to evaluate the the mass that was discovered near your uterus. You’re wondering if a CT would be better than an MRI in this case.

The National Institute of Health has a good informational article on the diagnostic tools for uterine imaging. First step would be the ultrasound, followed by an MRI. A CT has limitations in this area.
According to their report: “MRI is the modality of choice given the high tissue spatial resolution and absence of ionizing radiation. The different layers of the uterus are distinctly visualized.”

Here is the entire article for you on uterine imaging. National Library of Medicine:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK551551/

I hope everything goes smoothly with your surgery. Is this coming up soon?

charlotte12 | @charlotte12 | Apr 13 1:26pm

In reply to @loribmt "Hi @charlotte12, I’m sure this is a very stressful time for you right now with pending..." + (show)

Thank you for the response and link. My FCP ordered the MRI following
the recommendation of the radiologist who looked at the ultrasound. According to the
article the MRI comes in as a close second to evaluate the uterus. This was helpful
The surgery is 4/26, 3 weeks later than first planned. On the week of the first surgery appointment I developed a viral infection with a very violent cough. I'm still recovering.