A computerized tomagraphy (CT) scan and nuclear bone scan are both radiological procedures used to visualize different parts of the body for disease and disorder detection. A CT scan is a type of X-ray, while a bone scan is more invasive than an X-ray and requires the injection of nuclear radiation into the veins.
Purpose
According to the Mayo Clinic, a CT scan is used to find tumors, blood clots, infections and bleeding. It can detect fractures and muscle diseases, and help your doctor perform certain medical procedures. Unlike a CT scan, a nuclear bone scan solely focuses on diagnosing bone conditions such as fractures, bone cancers and osteomyelitis (a bone infection).
Risks
A CT scan poses more risk than a bone scan. It is important to tell your doctor whether you are pregnant, have certain medical conditions like asthma, and if you are allergic to the contrast dye used in CT scans. Risks for bone scans are minimal.
Preparation
No preparation is needed for a bone scan, while you will have to avoid eating food prior to getting a CT scan with contrast.
Procedure
Both CT and bone scans involve injections prior to scanning. Your doctor will inject you with contrast if you are getting a CT scan; he will inject you with tracers (radioactive materials) if you are getting a bone scan. A machine with then scan your entire body. Both procedures take about an hour.
Results
Your doctor will review both the CT and nuclear bone scan for dark or light spots. In a CT, your doctor will look for darker spots which may indicate bleeding and lighter spots which may indicate tumors. In a bone scan, light spots may indicate a bone tumor.
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