RAD4505 - Magnetic resonance imaging: Head, spine abdomen and pelvis - 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 brain, spine, upper abdomen and pelvis.

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

Clinical indications and the preparation of the patient including the correct positioning methods for the brain, spine, upper abdomen, and pelvis will be addressed.

The purpose of the common sequences used to image the specific organs and 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 brain, spine, upper abdomen, and pelvis.

The unit will conclude with an examination of the application of quality assurance and quality control principles to MRI imaging of the brain and torso.

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should 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 brain, spine, upper abdomen and pelvis
4. Select the appropriate MRI protocol and post processing techniques for MRI studies of the brain, spine, upper abdomen and pelvis from within an evidence-based framework
5. Recognise the characteristics of the MRI representation of common pathologies affecting the brain, spine, upper abdomen and pelvis
6. Apply the principles of quality assurance and quality control to MRI imaging in the clinical context

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 (15% each = total 30%) (30%)
• 2 x Advanced MRI clinical case studies (1,500 words each) (40%)
• Technical quality assurance and quality control report (1,000 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