1. A system for processing image data by adaptively varying pixel resolution within a 2D X-ray medical image, comprising: an imaging detector comprising a matrix array of detection picture elements having a detector pixel resolution for detecting X-rays passed through patient anatomy; an image data processor for determining a first area within a 2D image to be allocated a first pixel resolution and a second area within said 2D image to be allocated a second pixel resolution lower than said first resolution; a combinational processor for combining image data of a plurality of adjacent detection picture elements to provide an individual pixel of said second pixel resolution; and a user interface for generating data representing a 2D X-ray medical image including said first area having said first pixel resolution and said second area having said second pixel resolution lower than said first resolution.