Reconstruction techniques in high resolution computed tomography

The technique of computed tomography reconstruction enables the demonstration of different anatomical planes within the body using a series of axial scans. The principles of reconstruction are described and the technique illustrated in the examination of the pituitary gland and the cruciate ligaments of the knee. The main factors upon which the quality of the reconstruction image depend are discussed, including patient movement, axial scan thickness, reconstruction width, table accuracy and horizontal smoothing of the image. It is concluded that the technique is best suited to anatomical structures which are small in size and remain stationary during scanning. (U.K.)