RTS5102 - Radiation therapy science 5 - 2018

This unit covers advanced medical radiations physics with a specific focus on image formation and instrumentation. Students will gain an in-depth conceptual understanding of the instrumentation used for each of the diagnostic imaging modalities. Students will undertake a critical review of the physical properties responsible for image formation. Students will acquire an appreciation of the Image Registration process and the importance of combination imaging in radiation therapy. Students will gain an in-depth knowledge in the underlying theory and corresponding advancements in clinical radiation therapy instrumentation. Students will apply this knowledge in a critical review of advanced radiation therapy techniques.

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

1. Illustrate the principles of operation and image formation of CT, PET, MRI and Ultrasound modalities reflecting on their use in radiation therapy;
2. Discuss Image Registration and evaluate the advantages gained from combination imaging;
3. Describe the scientific concepts and analyse the clinical applications of Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy;
4. Evaluate the principles of Image-Guided Radiotherapy, describing the instrumentation and equipment used;
5. Appraise the advanced techniques of radiation therapy including Stereotactic Radiosurgery and Brachytherapy.

• Scientific poster with narration and audio (20%),
• Presentation (20 minutes) (20%),
• Critical review (1,000 words) (10%),
• Written invigilated examination (2 hours) (50%) (hurdle)

Hurdle Requirement: To pass this unit, students must:

• Achieve a combined mark of 50% or more of the available marks for the Scientific Poster, Presentation and Critical Review assessments.
• Achieve 50% or more of the available marks for the written examination.
• Students must pass the exam to pass the unit.

Radiation therapy