RAD3011

Medical imaging and methods 2 (CT) and digital image processing 2

Objectives This subject aims to provide students with an understanding of the scientific principles underpinning computed tomography (CT), its associated instrumentation and protocols, positioning methods and radiation protection principles. Students will extend their knowledge base developed in the digital image processing and the information technology components of RAD2052. On completion of the subject, students will be able to conduct and evaluate radiographic examinations of the skull, facial bones and lacrimal system; will know how to conduct CT examinations of the body; will be able to recognise and describe the relevant anatomical structures and their relationships on axial images and be able to recognise common pathological processes.

Synopsis Radiography (plain film imaging) of the cranium, facial bones and petrous temporal bone. Dacrocystography. Computed Tomography: scientific principles and operational modes. System components and image characteristics. Image reconstruction techniques, summation convolution back-projection. Introduction to the Fourier transform and other algebraic and iterative reconstruction methods. Helical/spiral CT systems. Artefacts and image quality measures in tomography, dosimetry. Area of interest statistics. CT positioning and examination protocols for the head, chest, abdomen and spine; CT pelvimetry and CT arthrography. Myelography (fluoroscopic and CT). Cross sectional anatomy will be reinforced. Information technology: implementation of tomographic reconstruction algorithms in software. 3D image representation of helical CT images, image co-registration in 3D, image segmentation in 3D. Digital image processing: image modification in the frequency domain, filters/masks: their form and functionality, sampling criteria, noise in sampling, ADCs, computer interface design, graphics adaptors in RISC-based work stations, device drivers, image compression and image analysis.

Assessment To be advised

Recommended texts

To be advised

Back to the 1999 Medicine Handbook