Question

When reviewing the images from a helical CT scan, a subtle, suspicious area of possible pathology is noticed. What could be done to better visualize the suspicious area WITHOUT increasing the dose to the patient?

1) Re-scan the region using thinner slices
2) Re-scan the region using a lower pitch
3) Retrospectively reconstruct the slices so that they overlap

Answer 1

To better visualize a suspicious area on a helical CT scan without increasing the dose to the patient, options include rescanning with thinner slices, rescanning with a lower pitch, or retrospectively reconstructing slices to overlap.

Step-by-step explanation:

To better visualize a suspicious area on a helical CT scan without increasing the dose to the patient, there are a few options:

1. Re-scan the region using thinner slices: This would allow for a higher level of detail and improved visualization of the suspicious area.
2. Re-scan the region using a lower pitch: Lowering the pitch would increase the overlap between the slices, resulting in a more comprehensive view of the area.
3. Retrospectively reconstruct the slices so that they overlap: By reconstructing the slices after the scan, overlapping can be achieved without the need for additional scans.