What is the effect of increasing window width in digital imaging?

Increasing window width in digital imaging affects the contrast of the displayed image by essentially creating a broader range of gray levels. When the window width is increased, more pixel intensity values are included in the visible range. This results in a decrease in contrast, as the differences between the lighter and darker areas of the image become less pronounced. Consequently, details that could have been emphasized through a narrower window width may become less distinguishable when the window width is expanded.

This concept is crucial in understanding how to manipulate and interpret digital images in radiologic technology, as it directly impacts the diagnostic quality of images. Adjusting window width effectively can be used to either enhance or reduce contrast based on clinical needs, but when increased, it systematically decreases the contrast in the image.