Computed Tomography (CT), Multi-Detector Computed Tomography (MDCT), Micro-CT, and Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

In the case of computed tomography, the image receptors consist of detectors that capture the X-ray photons transmitted through the patient or object, convert the photon energy to an electronic signal, and, finally, transmit the signal to the computer. Multiple detector rows enable larger volumes of tissue to be collected in one breath-hold in the clinical setting. When non-clinical materials are the subject of the study, the detector width is more important than the number of detector rows or channels available. Non-orthogonal reformats such as oblique and curve-linear reconstructions also rely on stacking the original data set but are much more complex. The oblique or off-axis orientation is easier to diagram. Algorithms are available that will reduce beam hardening and suppress streak artifact, but they may be identified using vendor-specific terminology. In the basic configuration of a computed tomographic unit, X-ray source and several detectors in a single row are located within a circular or donut-shaped structure termed the gantry.