MDCT.net's
Guide to Technology and Protocols
Guide to Technology and Protocols
MDCT Technology | Technical Considerations | Preparing Patients for Contrast-Enhanced Exams | CM Safety
Spatial Resolution
Spatial resolution is the capability of an imaging system to resolve closely placed objects or to image and display fine details.
When Should You Favor Spatial Over Temporal Resolution?
- When the area of interest is small
- Smaller arteries (coronary, renal, mesenteric, peripheral, pulmonary, carotid)
- Ducts (bile, pancreatic, salivary)
- Inner ear
- When looking for small lesions
- Subcentimeter lesions (e.g., peripheral pulmonary nodule or embolus)
- Fine abnormality (e.g., fracture, arterial stenosis, or pulmonary interstitial disease)
Trade-offs When Favoring Spatial Resolution
- Reduced coverage
- Reduce temporal resolution
- Reduced low-contrast resolution (increased noise)
- Longer exams and/or higher radiation dose, especially if high spatial resolution is accompanied by extended coverage
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