Why is it important to minimize motion during a CT scan?

Minimizing motion during a CT scan is crucial because motion can lead to blurriness and misregistration in the resulting images. When a patient moves, even slightly, during the acquisition of the scan, the x-ray data collected can become distorted. This results in a lack of clarity, as the movement causes the images to appear smeared or blurred, which can obscure important anatomical details and affect the accuracy of the diagnosis.

Misregistration, another consequence of motion, occurs when the images captured do not align properly. This misalignment can lead to errors in evaluating the size, shape, and position of structures within the body, potentially compromising the entire diagnostic process. To ensure high-quality imaging and to facilitate accurate assessments, it is essential for patients to remain still throughout the procedure.