Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Computed Tomography Imaging is a specialised modality within the field of medical radiations. The applications of computed tomography imaging have a wide impact on differential diagnoses and subsequent radiographic examinations.

Aims

This unit will provide you with an introduction to the operation and clinical applications of computed tomography and the image appearances.

Objectives

On completion of this unit you should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the physical principles of computed tomography (CT) and the impact of these on radiation dose and image quality
2. Demonstrate an understanding of patient care considerations for CT imaging including indications/contraindication, preparation and contrast usage
3. Describe the relative diagnostic strength of CT in relation to other imaging modalities.
4. Recognise,analyse and interpret CT images of anatomical structures.

Content

Principles of computed tomography.

Principles of reconstruction tomography.
Obtaining x-ray profiles.
Collimation and detection systems.
Reconstruction algorithms.
CT numbers.
Image display.
Performance evaluation.


CT in the diagnostic spectrum
Basic Principles and Terminology.
Technical Parameters and Considerations Affecting Scan Quality and radiation dose
CT Radiation Dose and dose minimization techniques
Detailed Clinical Applications to Specific Anatomical Areas.

Head, face, sinuses, posterior fossa.
Thorax.
Abdomen/pelvis.
Spine.
Advanced and Interventional Clinical Applications.
CT procedures.
CTA.
Pulmonary arteries.
Circle of Willis
Aorta

Reconstruction Techniques.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

Lectures provide theoretical information and reviews of case study images. Small group tutorials and practical sessions consolidate and extend the practical skills involved Practical sessions in image manipulation using dicom image resources enhance the learning environment. Self?directed learning will be encouraged by giving you access to on?line resources and exercises that reflect content and provide formative feedback on your understanding and progress

Assessment

Students must achieve a satisfactory level of performance in the practical and theoretical aspects of the unit to gain a passing grade. Students must achieve at least 55% to be awarded a passing gradeYou will receive feedback on your performance in on-line activities and image-viewing sessions. Small group tutorial sessions provide the opportunity for direct feedback.

Assessment name: Quiz/Test
Description: (Formative and summative) Quiz related to the physical principles of Computed Tomography.
Relates to objectives: 1.
Weight: 15%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: In Semester

Assessment name: Laboratory/Practical
Description: (Summative) - Practical image evaluation and interpretation.
Relates to objectives: 4.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Ongoing + End of Sem

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: (Summative) - End of semester theory examination.
Relates to objectives: 2 and 3.
Weight: 45%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: End of Semester

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Texts:
1. Romans L (2011) Computed Tomography for Technologists Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

2. Weir.J., Abrahams, et al (2012)Imaging Atlas of Hu.man Anatomy 4th edition

3. Bushong SC (2004) Radiologic Science for Technologist, 8th edition, Mosby

4. Ellis H et al (2007) Human Sectional Anatomy: atlas of body sections, CT and MRI images, Edward Arnold

Risk assessment statement

There are no out of the ordinary risks associated with this unit.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 21-Sep-2012