RAD1062

Radiographic imaging and methods 2 ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Associate Professor Marilyn Baird

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: Concepts of kilovolts, time, millamps, distance and exposure technique charts. Image quality factors: geometric, SNR, resolution, MTF, contrast, unsharpness. Principles of quality assurance. Viewing the image and ROC. The radiographic projections clinical rationale, positioning methodologies and evaluation criteria for the respiratory system, pelvis, shoulder girdle, vertebral column and bony thorax.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will know how to position the patient for radiographic examinations of the chest, shoulder and pelvic girdles, the hip joint and femur, the vertebral column and the bony thorax; how to modify their approach when required by the clinical presentation of the patient, especially in the case of the paediatric patient; where to direct the central ray and how to evaluate the resultant radiographs, in terms of anatomy, image quality (exposure factors), positioning, movement (sharpness and detail), processing, clinical indications and equipment failure. The imaging component of this unit provides students with an understanding of the scientific principles underpinning radiographic exposure and the operation of automatic exposure control systems together with the foundation principles of radiobiology and x-ray dosimetry. In addition, students should develop a broad understanding of the biological effects of ionising and non-ionising radiations and be able to appraise the response of cells, tissues and the whole organism to these radiations. They will fain experience in the use of devices for measuring patient dose these include ionisation chambers and exposure area product meters, TLDs.

Assessment: Written examination (3 hours): 60% + Laboratory reports: 20% + One multi-image analysis examination: 20%

Contact Hours: 3 lectures