School
Health and Human Services
Division
Health Careers
Department
Radiography Technician
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Radiography
Course Number
284
Course Title
Principles of Computed Tomography
Credit Hours
1.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
16.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
16.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
RAD-158, RAD-161, RAD-171, RAD-181, and RAD-190
Catalog Course Description
This online course provides entry level radiography students with principles related to computed tomography (CT) imaging.
Goals, Topics, and Objectives
Core Course Topics
- Historical Development,
- Scanner Generations
- Conventional and Helical Scanning
- Components of the CT Imaging System
- Display Console
- Application of CT terminology
- Image Reconstruction: Image Matrix, CT numbers, and Artifacts
- Factors Affectng Image Quality
- Data Storage Techniques
- Radiation Protection
- Diagnostic Applications
- Contrast Media
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
- Describe the components of the CT imaging system.
- Differentiate between conventional and spiral/helical CT scanning.
- Explain the function of collimators on CT.
- List the computer data processing steps.
- Name the functions of the array processor used for image reconstruction.
- Define the term algorithm and explain its impact on image scan factors and reconstruction.
- Define the terms raw data and image data.
- Explain the difference between reconstructing and reformatting an image.
- Describe the application of the following terms to CT: pixel, matrix, voxel, linear attenuation coefficient, CT/Hounsfield number, partial volume averaging, window width (ww) and window level (wl), spatial resolution, contrast resolution, noise, annotation, region of interest (ROI), and standard vs. volumetric data acquisition.
- Name the common controls found on CT operator consoles and describe how and why each is used.
- Analyze CT images for appearance of artifacts.
- Explain how artifacts can be reduced or eliminated.
- List and describe current data storage techniques used in CT.
- Name the radiation protection devices that can be used to reduce patient dose in CT and describe the correct application of both.
- Identify the types and applications of contrast media used in CT.
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of Academic Achievement
Assessment of academic achievement will include a combination of tests, quizzes, assignments, presentations and participation.
General Course Requirements and Recommendations
Students must receive a grade of “C” or better to remain in the RAD program.
Texts
Textbook(s) to be determined through program faculty approval.
Approval Dates
Effective Term
Fall 2019
Review Semester
Fall 2019