CT Scan, MRI or Ultrasound: Which Test and Why
Patients often ask for the 'best' scan. There is no best — each shows different things, and the right choice depends entirely on the question being asked.
Read articleAbout the Radiology department
Radiology is the department the rest of the hospital depends on. CT scanning, digital X-ray, ultrasound and colour Doppler run round the clock, supporting emergency stroke and trauma protocols, surgical planning, cancer staging, antenatal care and routine outpatient investigation.
Reports are issued digitally and, for most routine studies, on the same day. Emergency scans — a suspected stroke, a head injury, an acute abdomen — are reported immediately so that treatment is not held up.
Radiation dose is managed according to the principle of using the lowest exposure that still answers the clinical question. Pregnant patients should always inform the technologist before any X-ray or CT examination.
Conditions we treat
The presentations seen most often in this department. If your symptom is not listed, book a consultation anyway — the clinic will redirect you if another speciality fits better.
- Suspected stroke and head injury
- Trauma and fracture assessment
- Abdominal pain and suspected appendicitis
- Chest infection and lung disease
- Kidney stones and urinary obstruction
- Antenatal foetal assessment
- Cancer staging and follow-up
- Vascular assessment with Doppler
Procedures and services
- CT scan — head, chest, abdomen, spine and extremities
- Digital X-ray
- Ultrasound — abdomen, pelvis, obstetric and small parts
- Colour Doppler for arteries and veins
- Portable X-ray and bedside ultrasound in ICU
- Ultrasound-guided aspiration and drainage
- Pre-operative imaging and surgical planning
Technology and support
Equipment matters only when it is available at the moment of need. These services sit on the same campus, with laboratory and imaging cover round the clock.
- CT scanner with emergency protocols
- Digital radiography
- Ultrasound with colour Doppler
- Portable X-ray for intensive care
- Digital report delivery
When to seek urgent care
Do not wait for an outpatient appointment if any of the following applies. Call 9281862028 or come straight to the emergency department, which is open 24 hours and does not require an appointment.
- Always declare pregnancy or a possibility of pregnancy before imaging
- Declare kidney disease or a previous contrast reaction before a contrast CT
- Bring previous scans for comparison — it changes interpretation
Frequently asked questions
Who is the best radiologist in Anantapur?
The right radiologist is the one whose experience matches your problem. At SIMS Hospital, Anantapur, radiology care is provided by Dr. Guggella Swaroop Reddy (Consultant Radiologist). Book with a consultant by name, or describe your symptoms and the appointment desk will match you to the right specialist.
Is a CT scan safe?
CT uses ionising radiation, so it is performed when the clinical benefit clearly outweighs the small risk. Dose is minimised through protocol selection. For a patient with a suspected stroke, head injury or acute abdomen, the risk of not scanning is far greater.
How should I prepare for an abdominal ultrasound?
Fast for six to eight hours for an upper abdominal scan. For a pelvic scan, drink water and attend with a full bladder. The department will confirm the preparation when you book.
