PHYC41000 Medical Imaging Physics I

Academic Year 2021/2022

The module will begin by providing a brief account of the history of diagnostic medical imaging and an overview of specific mathematical methods relevant to the area. The lectures will review X-ray beam production and X-ray tube construction, and provide an introduction into the principles which form the basis of projection radiography for patient. The physical properties of image receptors and their effect on imaging characteristics and quality, such as image contrast, noise, and spatial and temporal resolution, will be examined. The lectures will introduce the modalities of computed and digital radiography, fluoroscopy, mammography, DEXA and dental radiography. For each, specific imaging modes, detector technologies, the use of radiographic contrast agents and performance testing will be discussed. The lectures will progress to the basic principles and scanning modes of Computed Tomography (CT), reviewing reconstruction techniques, imaging artifacts and parameters that affect both the imaging performance and the radiation dose to the patient. Finally, the module will consider the topic of image processing and of medical display monitors.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module, students should have acquired an understanding of the X-ray generation, the principles of projection radiography and the various imaging modalities which employ these principles in the hospital environment. Students should have acquired an appreciation for the different types of imaging receptors used for each modality, the factors affecting the quality of the acquired images, and how to approach performance testing. Students should also acquire an understanding of the image processing reconstruction techniques used in diagnostic imaging.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24

Specified Learning Activities

48

Autonomous Student Learning

48

Total

120

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module will combine lectures, group work and presentations (journal club). Students will be required to present the findings. The module will also be assessed with an end-of term exam. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Examination: Examination paper 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

60

Presentation: Oral presentation of scientific publication. Throughout the Trimester n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

20

Group Project: Group work and presentation. Unspecified n/a Standard conversion grade scale 40% No

20


Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.

Name Role
Dr Sean Cournane Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Luis Leon Vintro Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Dr Brendan McClean Lecturer / Co-Lecturer