CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

CT image acquisition is primarily obtained in which plane?

1. Coronal

2. Sagittal

3. Transverse

4. Axial

The correct answer is: Axial

CT image acquisition is primarily obtained in the axial plane, also referred to as the transverse plane. This approach allows the CT scanner to capture cross-sectional images of the body, enabling detailed visualization of anatomy and pathology in a consistent format. The axial plane is defined such that it divides the body into superior (upper) and inferior (lower) parts. As a result, when imaging is performed in this plane, the acquisition of data is done in slices that provide a comprehensive view of the body's internal structures. Additionally, the ability to reconstruct images in different planes (such as coronal and sagittal) is a significant advantage of CT, but the initial image acquisition itself occurs predominantly in the axial orientation. This foundation in axial imaging is critical for various diagnostic applications, making it essential for understanding CT procedures and interpreting the resulting images effectively. Understanding this plane and its predominance in CT imaging helps practitioners and students parse the complexity and detail inherent in CT scans.