Course unit details:
Non-Radioisotope Imaging
| Unit code | IIDS67431 |
|---|---|
| Credit rating | 15 |
| Unit level | FHEQ level 7 – master's degree or fourth year of an integrated master's degree |
| Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
| Offered by | Division of Informatics, Imaging and Data Sciences |
| Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
This course-unit provides an overview of the major imaging methods that do not use radioactive tracers. There is an emphasis on Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), as this represents a wide range of imaging techniques. Clinical ultrasound imaging and X-ray imaging, such as Computed Tomography are also covered. The course-unit is delivered between weeks four and twelve of the semester.
Basic concepts of MR Imaging:
- Physics: spin polarization, resonance, relaxation. Use of field gradients for image formation
- Conventional imaging techniques, k-space representation. Contrast in images, diagnostic utility.
- Fast Imaging
- Applications of Clinical MRI.
- Basics of functional imaging and contrast bolus tracking.
Basic concepts of X-ray CT and ultra sound imaging
- Physics and mathematics of image formation
- Function and diagnostic utility of the modalities
- Image quality and image reconstruction
- Hardware and optimisation of imaging parameters.
Pre/co-requisites
| Unit title | Unit code | Requirement type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematical Foundations Of Imaging | IIDS67451 | Co-Requisite | Compulsory |
Aims
To cover the physical, mathematical and technological processes involved in the major medical imaging modalities that do not involve radio-isotope injection. This course-unit comprises lectures and assessments of magnetic resonance imaging, computed X-ray tomography and diagnostic ultrasound. The commonality between imaging systems will be emphasised and equipment performance evaluation techniques and the clinical utilisation of images will also be covered.
Learning outcomes
| Category of Outcome | Students should be able to:- |
| Knowledge and Understanding | Describe the physics of the different imaging methods. Explain the key factors which determine image contrast in the different modalities. Undertake the standard approach to analysis for each modality. Describe the clinical applications of the techniques |
| Intellectual Skills | Advise on choice of imaging method for specific applications Advise on ways to improve contrast or signal-to-noise of images and appreciate the trade-offs involved |
| Practical Skills | Use a narrow bore high field MR scanner Analyse data using image processing software |
| Transferable skills and personal qualities | Undertake a critical review of an area of the imaging literature Give a presentation on a medical imaging topic -Write a scientific report |
Teaching and learning methods
- Teaching involves lectures and a laboratory practical session.
- Learning includes preparing a literature review on a medical imaging topic, a practical report and an oral presentation
Assessment methods
| Method | Weight |
|---|---|
| Written exam | 50% |
| Report | 30% |
| Oral assessment/presentation | 20% |
Feedback methods
- Formal summative assessments
- Real time educative formative assessments during practical classes
Study hours
| Independent study hours | |
|---|---|
| Independent study | 150 |
Teaching staff
| Staff member | Role |
|---|---|
| Richard Hodgson | Unit coordinator |