Leader: Mr Paul Lombardo

Offered

Clayton First semester 2008 (Off-campus)
Clayton Second semester 2008 (Off-campus)

Synopsis

Sonographic scanning methods, techniques and protocols related to selected examinations of the cardiovascular system. Gross anatomical structure and function and relevant pathophysiological disorders associated with the cardiovascular and immune systems. Interpretational skills in respect to artefacts and the sonographic appearances of the examinations addressed will be gained. The process of organ rejection and the role of ultrasound in the postoperative evaluation of liver and renal transplants. Quality assurance, sonographic measurement techniques, the utilisation of specific duplex modalities and the use of stents and grafts in vascular surgery.

Objectives

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

1. describe the gross structure and pathophysiological processes including organ rejection associated with the cardiovascular and immune systems;
2. recognise artefacts with the cross-sectional representation of the upper and lower limb venous and arterial systems and caratoid and vertebral arteries on sonographic images;
3. demonstrate knowledge and understanding of imagine modes, sonographic techniques and methods suitable for vascular imaging and the assessment of blood flow and organ perfusion;
4. perform sonographic examinations, including functional measurements of selected vessels of the cardiovascular system to a standard and ethical conduct expected of a sonographer of an intermediate beginner or higher;
5. describe and apply quality assurance principles to sonographic vascular and transplant imaging;
6. correlate ultrasound results with other medical images.

Assessment

Compulsory attainment of 50 vascular sonographic examinations
Two case based minor assignments: 20%
Written examination (2 hours): 40%
Image recognition examination (1 hour): 20%
Clinical skills assessment: 20% or Evidence Based Clinical Practice Assignment: 20%

Off Campus Attendance Requirements

Recommended attendance at a one day workshop at the Clayton campus

Prerequisites

SON4000, SON4010

Co-requisites

3 days a week performing relevant clinical ultrasound examinations or equivalent