RAD4504 - Magnetic resonance imaging: Musculoskeletal system - 2018

This unit extends knowledge of the basic physical principles of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and addresses safety and the protocols and processing methods used to image the upper and lower extremity.

The unit will introduce the student to the concept of evidence - based health care practice and how the principles apply to MRI practice.

The unit will examine the role played by the practitioner in the application of safety principles within the MRI suite. Clinical indications and the preparation of the patient including the correct positioning methods for the upper and lower extremity will be addressed.

The purpose of the common sequences used to image specific structures will be covered and students will learn how to select the most appropriate imaging protocol for the common sequences from within an evidence - based framework.

The unit will enable students to recognise the characteristics of the MRI representation of the common pathologies affecting the extremities.

The unit will conclude with an examination of the application of quality assurance and quality control principles to MRI imaging of the musculo-skeletal system.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students will be able to;

1. Apply principles of evidence-based health care practice to MRI imaging in the clinical context
2. Explain the role played by the practitioner in the application of safety principles within the MRI suite
3. Describe a range of clinical indications, patient presentations, patient preparation and positioning methods for MRI studies of the extremities
4. Select the appropriate MRI protocol and post processing techniques for MRI studies of the extremities from within an evidence-based framework
5. Recognise the characteristics of the MRI representation of common pathologies affecting the upper and lower extremity
6. Apply the principles of quality assurance and quality control to MRI imaging in the clinical context

Ideally this unit requires the student to have access to a clinical MRI machine and either observe or actively participate in MR examinations of the body areas being studied.

• Secure online examination (45 minutes) (15%)
• Two secure online image recognition and analysis examinations (45 minutes each) (15% each = total 30%)
• 2 x Advanced MRI clinical case studies (1,500 words each) (40%)
• Technical quality assurance and quality control report (1,500 words) (15%) Hurdle + Requirement: Each element of assessment is a hurdle for this unit

On-line delivery - course designed only for post graduate students.

There will be video clips and video-conferences available throughout the course to assist in directing students. Discussion forums will be initiated to further direct student outcomes.

See also Unit timetable information

Radiography and medical imaging

Radiation science