What is a significant disadvantage of using thinner slices in CT imaging?

Using thinner slices in CT imaging involves several considerations, and one significant disadvantage is indeed the increased radiation dose. Thinner slices can lead to more data being collected because a greater number of slices are necessary to cover the same volume of tissue. This increase in volume of data results in more x-ray exposure to the patient.

In conventional CT imaging, the amount of radiation is a critical factor because it balances the need for high-quality images with exposure risks to the patient. Thinner slices can enhance spatial resolution and provide more detailed images; however, this comes at the cost of needing additional radiation to achieve these finer details. Therefore, while there are benefits to thinner slices such as improved image quality, clinicians must also be aware of and manage the associated increase in radiation dose to ensure patient safety.