Leader: Associate Professor Marilyn Baird

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

Mammography instrumentation and positioning. Role of ultrasound in breast imaging. Dose calculation methodology: introduction to Monte Carlo technique. Determinants and classification of the biological effects of radiation. The ALARA principle. Interaction of radiation with tissue. Cellular radiobiology; cellular targets. Radiation effects on DNA. Cellular radiosensitivity. Factors affecting radiosensitivity. Response of organ systems to radiation: regeneration/repair. Characterisation of radiosensitivity. Specific organ responses. Ethics for the professional context. Regulation of health care. Criminal/civil law and health care. Legal issues surrounding patient consent and confidentiality.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. describe the instrumentation, quality assurance techniques, relevant protocols, positioning and methods employed in breast imaging (mammographic and breast sonography);

2. comprehend the advanced techniques used in radiation dosimetry calculations, interpret estimates and measurements used in medical imaging applications;

3. understand the biological effects of ionising radiation, radiosensitivity of specific organ systems and relevant advanced theories of radiation damage and repair mechanisms;

4. undertake basic practical measurement of radiation exposure and dose in a practical situation;

5. understand the role of professional ethics in the delivery of health care;

6. describe how health care is regulated;

7. apply the law to the practice of radiography; and

8. explain the concepts of informed consent and confidentiality and how they apply to radiographic practice.

Assessment

Examination (2hours): 65%
One imaging essay (1000 words): 15%
A professional journal: 20%

Co-requisites

Only available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Radiography and Medical Imaging.