RAD5500 - Multislice CT and clinical decision making - 2019

This unit is a foundation unit in the Master of Advanced Medical Imaging Practice. It extends knowledge of the basic physical principles and protocols of multi-slice computed tomography (CT).

The physical principles underpinning 3D volumetric image reconstruction, visualisation and quantification will be critically analysed. The unit will describe how image quality and dose can be optimised through the consideration of physics, scanner, and patient-specific factors.

The unit addresses protocols, patient preparation and monitoring, positioning, post-processing techniques and dose optimisation related to general body CT scanning and CT angiography. As well, an introduction to image interpretation of the brain and CT pulmonary angiography will be included.

Students will learn how to apply clinical decision-making skills to representative CT practice scenarios.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. Explain the physical and mathematical principles of CT image reconstruction and visualisation.
2. Describe the fundamental principles of multi-slice helical and cone-beam (CB) CT.
3. Explain the technical advances that facilitate cardiac and quantitative CT.
4. Select the appropriate CT protocol and post processing techniques including dose optimisation and use of oral and intra-venous contrast media for CT examinations of the brain, chest, abdomen and the vascular using an evidence-based framework.
5. Distinguish between normal and abnormal appearances CT brain and CTPA in the acute setting.
6. Accurately describe the principles of quality assurance and quality control used with multislice CT imaging.
7. Apply principles and techniques to make evidence-based, best practice clinical decisions for a variety of scenarios related to CT contrast media use, CT of the brain, respiratory, renal, vascular and gastrointestinal body systems.

• Assessment tasks Handbook entry description:
• Online quiz (10%)
• Online exam (60 mins) (30%)
• 2 case studies (1,000 words each) (15% for each case study = total 30%)
• iSAP case (2000 words) (30%)

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

See also Unit timetable information

Radiography and medical imaging

Radiation sciences