What advantage does a narrow fan beam have over a standard fan beam in scanning?

A narrow fan beam offers a distinct advantage in enhancing the accuracy of mass results during scanning procedures. This improved accuracy comes from the nature of how narrow fan beams focus and capture data. They can provide higher resolution images with finer detail, allowing for more precise measurements of bone density.

This is particularly crucial in clinical settings where accurate bone density readings are necessary for diagnosing conditions such as osteoporosis or assessing fracture risk. The narrowed beam minimizes the volume of tissue being irradiated, which can help in distinguishing between the bone and surrounding tissues more effectively, thus leading to more reliable mass evaluations.

In contrast to other options, while narrower fan beams may contribute to reduced scan times or make the scanning process more comfortable for patients indirectly, the primary and most significant benefit lies in the accuracy of the results, especially regarding mass and density assessments.