What's the difference between ultrasound and ct scan? can someone explain the difference between an ultrasound and a ct scan? i'm going to have both done on my abdomen because of pain and discomfort that i've been experiencing.

An : An ultrasound examination uses sound waves to generate an image of the anatomy being viewed. Ultrasound is excellent at evaluating the gallbladder and bile ducts. An ultrasound is the best way to detect gallstones which is a fairly common cause of abdominal pain. Ultrasound can also used to image the kidneys and liver. A ct scan utilizes a rotating x-ray beam to generate an image of the anatomy of concern. Ct is excellent at detecting kidney stones, bowel obstructions, pancreatitis, liver abnormalities, appendicitis, diverticulitis, irritated/inflamed bowel, and abdominal tumors; these are all possible causes of abdominal pain.

CT vs. Ultrasound: Ct uses xrays and special computers to make cross sectional images of the body. Ultrasound uses soundwaves to generate pictures of body parts. Both are useful for evaluating abdominal pain, but each has certain advantages (e.g., ultrasound slightly better for evaluating gallbladder and female pelvic organs and uses no radiation; ct is better for evaluation of bowel and pancreas.).