What Is the Difference Between a Cat Scan & a Bone Scan?

A CAT scan and a bone scan are very different tests that allow doctors to quickly and accurately diagnose and treat medical diseases.

CAT Scan

• In a Computerized Axial Tomography (CAT) scan, specialized x-ray machines and high tech computers are combined to give the doctor a two- or three-dimensional view of the inside of the body.

Purpose of a CAT Scan

• CAT scans are used to find internal abnormalities, such as tumors, infections, blood clots and certain fractures that might not show up on a regular x-ray. Organs also are often examined for size and shape abnormalities.

Bone Scan

• A bone scan is an imaging test in which a radioactive substance is injected into the patient, and then travels to the bones. A specialized camera takes pictures of the bones, and the health of the bones is assessed by which areas gather more radioactive material.

Purpose of a Bone Scan

• A bone scan is used to show bone density. It also can locate damage caused to bones by infection, breaks or traumatic injury, and is helpful in finding bone cancer.

When a Test is Necessary

• These are very specialized procedures used only in specific situations. Your doctor will order the scan for you, and explain the benefits, risks and precautions.