Which reconstruction protocol will produce the highest image noise in computed tomography?

The choice that produces the highest image noise in computed tomography is the bone algorithm with 2.5 mm slices. This outcome is due to several factors related to the reconstruction protocols used in CT imaging.

Bone algorithms are specifically designed to enhance the visualization of bony structures, and they typically use a higher level of edge enhancement compared to soft tissue algorithms. However, one significant aspect that contributes to the image noise level is the slice thickness. A thicker slice, like 2.5 mm, averages out the data across a larger volume of tissue. This averaging can lead to a reduction in the geometric sharpness and may increase the amount of noise present in the image because less data is being reconstructed into each pixel of the image.

In contrast, thinner slices (such as 0.315 mm in the bone algorithm or 0.625 mm and 1.25 mm in the soft tissue algorithms) have the potential to present less image noise as they capture more detail and have a finer sampling of the data, which can help in reducing the visibility of noise. These thinner slices help in better differentiating structures and achieving greater image quality.

In summary, the bone algorithm with 2.5 mm slices produces the highest image noise due to the inherently broader