Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 5, 2026

Segmentation and Linear Measurement for Body Composition Analysis using Slice-O-Matic and Horos
Published on: March 21, 2021
The art and science of straight lines in radiology
Cynthia M Day1, Aaron Sodickson
1Division of Emergency Radiology, Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis St., Boston, MA 02115, USA. cday3@partners.org
Objective:
The purpose of this article is to review the physical basis for straight radiographic lines, identify the possible components that may form a straight line interface in the body, provide illustrative examples across multiple organ systems and modalities, and explore how the detection of these interfaces can support specific diagnoses.
Conclusion:
Detection of a straight line interface can help the radiologist recognize otherwise difficult or subtle pathologic processes, and identification of its components can provide valuable clues to diagnosis.
Related Concept Videos
Radiological Investigation I: X-ray and CT
X-ray Imaging
Computed Tomography
The technique was invented in the 1970s and is based on the principle that as X-rays pass through the body, they are absorbed or reflected at different levels. In the technique, a patient lies on a motorized platform while a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scanner rotates...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System III: X-Ray
Definition and Purpose
An X-ray, or radiograph, is a non-invasive method that uses ionizing radiation to take images of internal structures. It is mainly used in cardiac imaging to examine the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels, aiming to identify abnormalities in the heart's size, shape, and position, such as heart failure, congenital defects, and vascular...
Imaging Studies I: CT and MRI
Description of the Procedures
Computed Tomography (CT) scan:
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-ray technology to generate detailed images of bones, organs, and tissues. During the scan, the patient lies on a moving table...
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
