Scanning protocols for multislice CT scanners

The new multislice CT (MSCT) technology enables examinations to be completed with much greater flexibility in terms of shorter times and improved z-axis resolution. For this to be achieved, a very large amount of data may be produced, with implications on the way the data are handled and reviewed. In addition, there is the issue of radiation dose to the patient and the effect that multislice scanning has on it. In this paper, the basic physics principles of MSCT are reviewed and clarification is given why and where these differ from single slice scanning. Examples of scanning protocols are given with reference to patient dose. These protocols vary depending on the make and model of the scanner and the type of examination.