LABORATORY FOR MEDICAL IMAGING WITH IONIZING RADIATION

BME/MEDPHYS 580

Concepts and principles on the physics of medical imaging systems that form images using high energy photons are presented. Such systems are divided into two categories: (1) those based on the transmission of x-rays through the human body, including radiography, mammography, fluoroscopy, and computed tomography (CT), and (2) those based on the emission of gamma rays or annihilation radiation following radioactive decay of an internal radiolabeled molecule, including the gamma camera, single photon emission tomography (SPECT), and positron emission tomography (PET) and PET hybrid imaging systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding how physics, system design, and imaging technique determine image performance metrics such as contrast, signal-to-noise ratio, and spatial resolution. Clinical applications and radiation safety concepts are detailed for the different types of imaging systems.

BME/MEDPHYS 567

Physics of x-ray diagnostic procedures and equipment, radiation safety, general imaging considerations; lecture and lab.

MEDPHYS/PHYSICS 688

Physics of ionizing radiation production and detection in medical science; ionization chambers, solid-state detectors, charged and neutral particles for external beam radiotherapy, radionuclides activated with accelerators for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, radiochemistry, and X-ray tube physics.

MEDPHYS 662

Provides hands on experience using and testing radiographic, fluoroscopic and mammographic x-ray systems. Imaging requirements, image quality, and radiation dose aspects of each modality are covered, along with practical methods for evaluating the performance of clinical units.

MEDPHYS 665

Provides hands on experience using and testing computerized tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) systems. Image quality, MRI and radiation safety, accreditation, and regulatory compliance issues with these modalities are also covered.