RAD4500 - Multislice CT and evidence based practice - 2018

This unit is a foundation unit of the Master of CT Radiography Practice and the Master of Radiography Practice. It extends knowledge of the basic physical principles of multislice computed tomography (CT) and the protocols and processing methods used to image the whole body. The physical principles underpinning 3-D volumetric imaging will be contextualised within the axial, SSH and MSH scanning modes/systems. The techniques for processing and visualising 3-D images will be critically analysed. The unit will describe the physical and mathematical principles related to multi-planar reformats, maximum intensity projection, slab maximum intensity projection, surface rendering or shaded surface display and volume rendering. Protocols, patient preparation and monitoring, positioning, post-processing techniques and dose optimisation related to CT biopsies, interventional CT, virtual endoscopy, and CT angiography will be described and evaluated from within an evidence-based framework. The unit will conclude with an introduction to image interpretation of the brain and CTPA and the application of quality assurance and quality control principles to multislice CT imaging.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Explain the physical and mathematical principles of multi-planar reformats, maximum intensity projection, slab maximum intensity projection, surface rendering and volume rendering, and their significance to multislice CT imaging;
2. Differentiate between axial, SSH and MSH scanning modes/systems, and describe how oversampling techniques are used in the collection, processing and visualisation of 3-D images;
3. Select the appropriate CT protocol and post processing techniques including dose optimisation for core and fine needle biopsies; CT angiographic studies and virtual colonoscopies from within an evidence-based framework;
4. Distinguish between normal and abnormal appearances CT brain and CTPA in the acute setting;
5. Accurately implement the principles of quality assurance and quality control to multislice CT imaging.

• Online examination (90 minutes) (30%)
• 2 x Advanced CT clinical case studies (1,500 words each) (50%)
• Technical quality assurance and quality control report (1,000 words) (20%)

Off-campus: 12 hours per week for 12 weeks.

See also Unit timetable information

Radiography and medical imaging

Radiation science