> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.spine.altician.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Normalization

> Understanding Raw vs Normalized views and Ratio maps

## View Types

### Raw

Displays the original MRI intensity values as captured by the scanner. Values depend on the specific scanner, coil, and protocol used.

### Normalized

Applies histogram equalization to standardize intensity distribution. This provides consistent contrast regardless of the scanner or protocol.

### Ratio (T2/T1)

When both T1 and T2 series are loaded, a Ratio map (T2 divided by T1) can highlight tissue differences. Areas with high T2 signal relative to T1 appear brighter.

## When to Use Each

| View       | Best For                                              |
| ---------- | ----------------------------------------------------- |
| Raw        | Comparing with original PACS images                   |
| Normalized | Consistent visualization across scans                 |
| Ratio      | Highlighting fluid/edema, tissue contrast differences |