Multidetector CT/Helical CT and Image Characteristics

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to Multidetector CT and its characteristics, helping students prepare for their exam.

kVp

Kilovolt peak; a measurement of the maximum voltage applied across the X-ray tube.

mAs

Milliampere seconds; a measurement of the total exposure time of the X-ray beam.

Spatial Resolution

The ability of a CT scanner to differentiate between two closely spaced objects.

Contrast Resolution

The ability of a CT scanner to differentiate between tissue densities.

Multi-Slice Computed Tomography (MSCT)

A CT imaging technology that utilizes multiple rows of detectors to capture numerous slices in a single rotation.

Pitch (Helical Pitch Ratio)

The relationship between the movement of the patient couch and the width of the X-ray beam.

Hounsfield Unit (HU)

A quantitative scale for describing radiodensity; allows comparison of tissue X-ray absorption.

Binning

Combining detector elements electronically to alter slice thickness.

Window Width and Level

Post-processing techniques that adjust the range of CT numbers displayed in an image.

Modulation Transfer Function (MTF)

A function describing the spatial resolution of a CT imaging system.