What is meant by detector pitch in computed tomography?

Detector pitch in computed tomography refers to the relationship between the movement of the CT scanner table and the thickness of the slices being imaged during a single rotation of the scanner. Specifically, it is calculated as the distance the table moves during one complete rotation of the x-ray tube divided by the selected slice thickness of the detector.

This measurement is significant because it impacts the amount of information captured during scanning and influences the quality and speed of the scan. A high pitch value may lead to faster scans, but it can also result in decreased image quality if the slice thickness is not appropriately matched to the table movement. Thus, understanding detector pitch is essential for optimizing imaging protocols in various clinical settings.