RAB3100 Computed Tomography Imaging Technology in Depth Course description

Computed tomography (CT) provides great opportunities for accurate and detailed diagnosis, and has increased in scope in recent years. The specialisation course in CT focuses on protocol development, new trends in parameter selection, post-processing and image analysis. This course has been developed with a focus on new technology and in-depth study of innovative imaging methods.

Passed first and second year of the programme or equivalent

After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence: ;

Knowledge ;

The student can

• explain different CT scan parameters, how they relate to each other and their effect on the image quality and radiation dose of the CT examinations
• explain the general principles for CT optimisation with respect to image quality and radiation dose
• explain the clinical application of the different protocols
• explain optimisation of contrast agent examinations using new technology
• describe how advanced new CT technology can be used in optimisation projects

Skills ;

The student can

• apply advanced image processing methods in CT examinations

General competence ;

The student can

• discuss the role of CT in diagnostic imaging at present and in future
• assess the role of innovation in the field of CT

The work and teaching methods include lectures, seminars, skills training and self-study.

The following must have been approved in order for the student to take the exam:

• a minimum attendance of 80 % at scheduled seminars and skills training sessions;

Basic knowledge of radiation physics and atomic physics is required for professional practice as a radiographer. A main focus in the course is the construction, function and use of X-ray equipment. The course gives students a thorough introduction to radiation physics, how x-ray images are created and factors that influence this process. The course also provides an introduction to radiation protection, ethics and theories of communication and the history of radiography.

The student must have been admitted to the study programme.

Pass/Fail;

After completing the course, the student should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

The student

• understands the history of the profession of radiographer and its contemporary practice in a national and international context
• can describe how radiographers work and what characterises the practice of radiography
• can explain the main principles of patient communication
• can refer to relevant ethical theories and professional ethics
• can describe the content and function of professional ethical guidelines
• can describe the steps of evidence-based practice
• can describe laws, regulations and principles related to radiation protection
• can explain the concept of ionising radiation
• can explain how electromagnetic radiation and particle radiation are formed
• can explain the X-ray spectrum used for conventional radiography and mammography
• can describe interactions between X-rays and tissue/matter
• can explain the concept of radiation doses
• can describe the components of a conventional X-ray equipment, its structure and how it works
• can explain how radiation is detected
• can explain and describe the structure of digital images
• can explain factors that affects image quality
• can explain the relationship between optimal image quality and radiation dose
• can describe the image storage system Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS)
• can describe different aspects of post-processing
• can describe different organs’ radiosensitivity

Skills

The student can

• handle safe use of X-ray equipment as regards radiation risk
• identify the elements of an X-ray laboratory
• explain and apply different types of filters, grids and their placement in the X-ray equipment
• apply knowledge of challenges relating to communication with patients, next of kin and colleagues

General competence

The student can

• understand basic radiation physics related to ionising radiation
• understand the fundamental principles of radiation protection
• use an X-ray laboratory

Work and teaching methods include lectures, seminars, skills training, written work and self-study. In seminars, the students work in groups. This course uses digital learning resources in the form of video lectures, digital tests and exercises.