RAD3092 - Magnetic resonance imaging (physics and technology) - 2019

The physics of MRI is presented, with particular application to clinical diagnostic imaging. The unit covers the basic physics of magnetic dipoles and magnetic spin resonance, through to a detailed presentation of the basic gradient and spin echo sequences that are used in medical MRI scanners. The factors that determine the contrast and spatial resolution achievable in MRI are discussed. The FID signal sampling and image reconstruction methods are reviewed, as are the SNR and image artifacts that typically occur in MRI. Patient and MRI staff safety issues are presented. An overview of MRI imaging applications, such as spectroscopic and dynamic imaging is presented.

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

1. Present a comprehensive and critical description of the complementary nature of MRI relative to other imaging modalities
2. Enumerate and be able to justify the physical design and operational requirements for a typical clinical MRI system
3. Understand and explain the imaging parameters that define the contrast sensitivity in MRI
4. Understand and explain the imaging parameters that define the SNR and spatial resolution of MRI
5. Reconcile through a critical evaluation the advantages and disadvantages of gradient and spin echo recovery techniques
6. List in detail and justify the reasons for precautions that are taken in MRI to assure staff and patient safety
7. Explain use and development of the broader applications of MRI, including spectroscopic, dynamic and functional imaging
8. Use problem solving skills to define appropriate strategies to meet the needs of clinical imaging through MRI techniques, and to recognize deficiencies in images, such as reconstruction artifacts, and be able to identify the cause of such problems.

NOTE: From 1 July 2019, the duration of all exams is changing to combine reading and writing time. The new exam duration for this unit is 3 hours and 10 minutes.

• Exam (3 hours) (60%)
• Assignments (2,500 words) (20%)
• Mid-semester exam (1 hour) (20%)

3 hours of lectures, 1 hour tutorial and 2 hours of Laboratory per week for a 12 week semester plus one week for revision.

See also Unit timetable information

Radiography and medical imaging

Radiation sciences