What is the result of poor collimation in gamma imaging?

Poor collimation in gamma imaging leads to a loss of spatial resolution. Collimation is the process that involves directing the gamma rays emitted from a radioactive source in a way that improves image clarity and detail. When collimation is inadequate, it allows scattered radiation and unwanted photon detection from outside the area of interest, which can blur the image.

This loss of spatial resolution means that the ability to distinguish between different structures or anomalies in the tissue being imaged is diminished. Consequently, finer details that are crucial for accurate diagnoses may be obscured, resulting in images that are less informative. Maintaining proper collimation is essential to acquire high-quality images that accurately reflect the distribution of the radioactive material within the patient.

The other options, such as increased image complexity, enhanced contrast, or improved detection of low-energy photons, do not align with the primary impact of poor collimation, which fundamentally disrupts the clarity and precision needed for effective gamma imaging.