In CT scanning, orthogonal planes are defined as?

Orthogonal planes are understood to be planes that are at 90 degrees to each other. In the context of CT scanning, this means that when a scan is performed in one plane, orthogonal planes would be those that intersect it perpendicularly. Common orthogonal planes in imaging include axial, sagittal, and coronal planes. This fundamental concept is critical in diagnostic imaging, as it allows for a comprehensive assessment of anatomical structures by viewing them from multiple perspectives. By using orthogonal planes, radiologists can better visualize relationships between structures, identify abnormalities, and make accurate diagnoses.

The other options do not accurately define orthogonal planes; for example, planes that are parallel to the original scan plane do not intersect perpendicularly. Similarly, variations in thickness pertain to slice thickness rather than the relationship between planes, and the definition of orthogonal planes is not limited to 3D reconstructions. Understanding orthogonal planes is essential for interpreting CT images effectively.