Scientific Principles of Cross-sectional Imaging
| Module title | Scientific Principles of Cross-sectional Imaging |
|---|---|
| Module code | PAMM111 |
| Academic year | 2023/4 |
| Credits | 15 |
| Module staff |
| Duration: Term | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration: Weeks | 12 |
| Number students taking module (anticipated) | 15 |
|---|
Module description
This module will introduce more scientific and technical depth around concepts relating specifically to cross-sectional imaging. You will develop further knowledge and understanding of the underlying theoretical principles behind the equipment and technical aspects involved in CT and MRI imaging.
Module aims - intentions of the module
You will gain essential knowledge of the science and innovation underpinning cross-sectional imaging modalities (CT and MRI). The module further aims to provide introductory knowledge of equipment and technical aspects sufficient to prepare you for stage 4 modules on CT and MRI (PAMM112, PAMM113, and PAMM114).
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
ILO: Module-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 1. Explain the physical and scientific principles on which image formation is based for both CT and MRI.
- 2. Gain an in-depth understanding of the physical principles of CT and MRI, including the influence of key parameters on image acquisition.
- 3. Explain the principles of ionising radiation safety and MRI safety, and appreciate the constraints placed upon practice.
- 4. Critically evaluate the role of different clinical protocols and the science, safety and usage of contrast media and other medicines used within CT to make recommendations around protocol optimisation.
ILO: Discipline-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 5. Use appropriate sources of information to develop own knowledge.
- 6. Develop a command of relevant IT packages for image viewing of cross-sectional imaging.
ILO: Personal and key skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 7. Manage time and, with guidance, prioritise workloads.
- 8. Critically reflect on personal performance to allow for personal development and change.
Syllabus plan
Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, an example of an overall structure is as follows:
Science and design principles of CT and MRI imaging
- Principles of CT image reconstruction
- Principles of CT automated dose modulation and image optimisation techniques
- Explanation of CT parameters – purpose and effects on image quality
- Principles of MRI image formation
- Explanation of MRI pulse sequence families
- Explanation of MRI parameters – purpose, effects on image quality, effect on SAR Equipment design, benefits and limitations
- CT Hardware (tube, detector and gantry design etc.)
- MRI Field strength & functionality
- MRI Hardware (gradients, slew rates etc.)
- MRI coil options
- Digital imaging software features including post processing and reformatting applications, secure handling and archiving
CT and MRI Safety
- Ionising radiation safety and CT related dosimetry
- Static magnetic field (translational & rotational forces on ferromagnetic materials)
- Time varying magnetic field (induced voltage, auditory considerations, thermal heating)
- Implant safety – passive implants
- Implant safety – active implants
- Site access, siting considerations
- Use of relevant contrast agents used in cross-sectional imaging
Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)
| Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities | Guided independent study | Placement / study abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 130 | 0 |
Details of learning activities and teaching methods
| Category | Hours of study time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching activities | 10 | Learning including lectures, group discussion, seminars, masterclasses |
| Scheduled learning and teaching activities | 10 | Online learning using a variety of interactive learning resources to include video masterclasses |
| Guided independent study | 25 | Preparation for assessment |
| Guided independent study | 5 | Tutor guided online discussion forums in the form of discussion board, consolidation of learning |
| Guided independent study | 100 | Independent critical analysis / evaluation developing knowledge and understanding |
Formative assessment
| Form of assessment | Size of the assessment (eg length / duration) | ILOs assessed | Feedback method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer based exam | 1 hour | 1-6 | Written |
Summative assessment (% of credit)
| Coursework | Written exams | Practical exams |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 100 | 0 |
Details of summative assessment
| Form of assessment | % of credit | Size of the assessment (eg length / duration) | ILOs assessed | Feedback method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-class test | 40 | 60 minutes | 1-6 | Written |
| Written exam | 60 | 90 minutes | 1-5,7-8 | Written |
| 0 | ||||
| 0 | ||||
| 0 | ||||
| 0 |
Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)
| Original form of assessment | Form of re-assessment | ILOs re-assessed | Timescale for re-assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| In class test 40% | In class test 60 minutes | 1-6 | August/September assessment period |
| Written exam 60% | Written exam 90 minutes | 1-5; 7-8 | August/September assessment period |
Re-assessment notes
If you pass re-assessments taken as a result of deferral, your re-assessment will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment and the overall module mark will not be capped.
If you pass re-assessments taken as a result of referral (i.e. following initial failure in the assessment), the overall module mark will be capped at 50%.
If you fail re-assessments taken as a result of referral (i.e. following initial failure in the assessment), you will be failed in the module.
Please also refer to the TQA section on Referral/Deferral: http://as.exeter.ac.uk/academic-policy-standards/tqa-manual/aph/consequenceoffailure/
Indicative learning resources - Basic reading
Textbook based resources:
Seeram E. Computed Tomography-E-Book: Physical Principles, Clinical Applications, and Quality Control. Elsevier Health Sciences; 2015 Sep 2. ISBN 9780323323017
Buzug TM. Computed tomography from photon statistics to modern cone-beam CT. ISBN 9783540394082
Essentials of MRI safety (e-book) Donald W McRobbie, Wiley Blackwell, 2020 ISBN: 9781119557166
MRI in Practice (e-book) Catherine Westbrook, Wiley Blackwell, 2019 ISBN: 9781119391999
MRI from Picture to Proton (e-book) Donald McRobbie et al, Wiley Blackwell, 2017 ISBN: 9781107706958
MRI Contrast Agents (e-book) Sophie Laurent, Springer, 2017 ISBN: 9789811025273
Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources
RCR Guidelines on contrast usage and extravasation trauma/stroke/CTC/PET/CT imaging
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA): Safety guidelines for magnetic resonance imaging in clinical use, 2014
Royal College of Radiologists (RCR): Guidance on gadolinium based contrast agent administration
NICE Guidelines and Core Knowledge Summaries
RCR Guidance documents
| Credit value | 15 |
|---|---|
| Module ECTS | 7.5 |
| Module pre-requisites | None |
| Module co-requisites | None |
| NQF level (module) | 7 |
| Available as distance learning? | No |
| Origin date | 26/01/2022 |
| Last revision date | 10/02/2022 |
