Undergraduate - UnitRAD3042 - Medical imaging science and practice 2

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Synopsis

Sonographic anatomy of the abdominal organs and related structures. Sonographic representation of common abdominal pathologies. Selection of appropriate ultrasound equipment, and optimisation of technical factors. Scanning techniques for the liver, gallbladder, biliary system, anterior abdominal wall & hernias, peritoneum & retroperitoneum and Doppler ultrasound of the upper abdomen. Doppler ultrasound and harmonic imaging. Spectral Doppler and continuous Doppler instrumentation. Ultrasound artefacts. Bio-effects and bio-hazards of diagnostic ultrasound. Limited clinical experience in abdominal ultrasound examinations and facilitatation of ongoing development in general radiography examinations. Scientific principles underpinning breast imaging, their associated instrumentation and protocols, positioning methods and radiation protection principles. Principles of radiation dosimetry, ethics, regulation of health care and legal issues in the professional context

Outcomes

1. Describe the patient preparation and sonographic imaging methods employed in examinations of the upper abdomen.
2. Recognise and describe normal structures, function and common pathological appearances of abdominal structures in ultrasound images.
3. Explain the function, application and potential pitfalls of ultrasound instrumentation used in abdominal ultrasound scanning, including B- mode, spectral Doppler and imaging artefacts.
4. Discuss the likely bio-effects and bio-hazards of diagnostic ultrasound.
5. Perform a basic ultrasound examination of the upper abdomen to the level of a beginner student sonographer.
6. Modify and adapt general and advanced radiographic techniques, radiation protection strategies and demonstrate professional communication skills to the level of a competent student radiographer.
7. Identify ongoing personal learning goals in respect to the continued development of professional expertise in general radiography and ultrasound.
8. Describe the instrumentation, quality assurance techniques, relevant protocols, positioning and methods employed in mammography imaging.
9. Analyse advanced techniques used in radiation dosimetry calculations, and interpret estimates and measurements used in medical imaging applications.
10. Discuss the biological effects of ionising radiation, radiosensitivity of specific organ systems and relevant advanced theories of radiation damage and repair mechanisms.
11. Evaluate the role of professional ethics in the delivery of health care.
12. Define and explain the legal issues affecting the practice of medical imaging.

Assessment

Written Examination 3 hrs - 35%
Image Analysis Examination 1/2hr - 10%
Ultrasound Imaging Essay (1500 words) - 10%
Ultrasound Skills Assessment - 10%
Clinical Learning Portfolio - 35%
All elements of assessment must be passed to pass the unit.

Chief examiner(s)

Mrs Imelda Williams

Contact hours

5 x one hour lectures
2 x one hour tutorials
1 x one and a half hour laboratory practical session
4 hours directed study using Blackboard

Prerequisites

Completed 1st and 2nd year Radiography units and RAD3051 and RAD3061

Co-requisites

RAD3092