PHYC41000

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.