Description

This module aims to develop knowledge of the science and technology underpinning the x-ray sources, image receptors and supporting facilities used in clinical radiology. The module also aims to provide understanding of the details of a number of advanced 2-D x-ray imaging applications now becoming widely available in imaging departments. A further aim is to provide knowledge of the way in which controls are implemented to ensure that there is continuous improvement in safety and the reliability of the imaging chain. Encompassed within this module are the example situations of angiography and neurology, utilisation of x-ray interventional procedures and use of x-ray facilities in wards and A&E Departments.

Module Aims

This module pre-dates the current template; refer to the description above and the following ILO sections.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

A student who has passed this module should be able to:

• Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  1. explain the basis of design in provision of x-ray tubes for diagnostic radiology;
  2. explain the basis of design in provision of image receptors for diagnostic radiology;
  3. explain the factors that control formulation of contrast agents;
  4. outline the range of two-dimensional imaging techniques available in general and interventional diagnostic x- ray radiology
  5. explain the needs served by interventional diagnostic x- ray radiology;
  6. describe the needs served by quality assurance and quality control procedures and discuss details of these
  7. describe the basis and evolution of CT;
  8. describe details of normal anatomy image interpretation/evaluation;
  9. describe details of emerging technologies and their implications for patient management;
• Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
  10. use appropriate sources of information to develop own knowledge;
  11. use IT packages for image viewing;
• Personal and Key Transferable / Employment Skills and Knowledge:
  12. manage time and, with some guidance, prioritise workloads;
  13. use problem-solving skills in practical situations.

Syllabus Plan

1. Principles of x-radiography
   1. Design and operating principles of the x-ray tube.
   2. X-ray image receptors.
   3. Digital imaging: acquisition, processing and storage.
   4. Cassette and Bucky design.
   5. Science of contrast-enhancement agents.
2. Advanced 2D techniques
   1. Geometric tomography.
   2. Dual energy x-ray absorption (DEXA).
   3. Fluoroscopy.
   4. Mamography.
3. Interventional x-radiography procedures
   1. Level of anatomy demonstrated.
   2. Angiography.
   3. Neurology.
   4. Imaging during therapeutic interventional procedures.
4. Quality assurance and quality control
   1. Theoretical background.
   2. Outline Quality Control tests
   3. Image-reject analysis.
   4. Radiation-protection regulations and legislation.
   5. Practical exercises.
5. Computed tomography (CT)
   1. Physical principles.
   2. Data processing.
   3. Standard equipment.
   4. Standard imaging procedures.
   5. Patient care, safe and efficient practice.
   6. Evaluation and interpretation of images: level of anatomy demonstrated, normal and pathological examples.
6. Practical image interpretation
   1. Examples from 2D and 3D imaging procedures.
7. Emerging technologies
   1. Theoretical background.
   2. Range of clinical indications.
   3. Implications for patient management.

Learning and Teaching

Learning Activities and Teaching Methods

Assessment

Resources

The following list is offered as an indication of the type & level of information that students are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Instructor(s).

Core text:

• Carlton R.R. and Adler A.M. (2012), Radiographic Imaging Concepts and Principles (5^th edition), Delmar, ISBN 9-781-11131-081-3 (UL: On Order)

Supplementary texts:

• Blake G., Wahner H.W. and Fogelman I. (1994), The Evaluation of Osteoporosis: Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry in Clinical Practice (2^nd edition), Martin Dunitz, ISBN 978-1853174728 (UL: 616.716 BLA)
• Carter C. and Veale B. (2008), Digital Radiography and PACS, Mosby Elsevier, ISBN 978-0-323-04444-8 (UL: 616.07572 CAR)
• Chesney D.N. (1995), Chesney's Radiographic Imaging (6^th edition), Blackwell Science, ISBN 0-632-03901-9 (UL: 616.075 CHA)
• Dendy P.P. and Heaton B. (1999), Physics for Diagnostic Radiology, Institute of Physics Publishing, ISBN 0-750-30591-6 (UL: WN 400 DEN)
• Oakley J. (2006), Digital Imaging, A Primer for Radiographers, Radiologists and Health Care Professionals, Cambridge University Press, ISBN 1-841-10121-4 (UL: 616.0754 OAK)

ELE:

• http://newton.ex.ac.uk/redirects/ELE/pam2003

Further Information

Prior Knowledge Requirements

Re-assessment

Re-assessment is not available except when required by referral or deferral.

Notes: See Medical Imaging Assessment Conventions.

KIS Data Summary

Miscellaneous