Volumetric CT: creating a new paradigm for image acquisition and review

With the advent of fast, thin-slice CT, volumetric imaging is a practical and dose-efficient reality. However, the acquisition of many image slices at 0.5 mm thickness requires a new paradigm in image review. This article describes a hierarchical approach to handling the vast data set. The use of volume rendering and multiplanar reformatting techniques are critical in the process. Implementation of this approach at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center has resulted in greater clinical use of CT and improved diagnostic accuracy, while maintaining an acceptable throughput.