HUMAN ANATONOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Class details...
An overview of human anatomy and physiology with emphasis on the body systems most relevant to limited diagnostic radiology practice. Students will study the structure and function of the skeletal, muscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, urinary, reproductive, and nervous systems, with connections made to radiographic positioning, imaging procedures, and common pathologies.
Class Modules...
1. Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology
- Levels of structural organization (cells, tissues, organs, systems)
- Anatomical terminology (planes, directions, body cavities, regions, quadrants)
- Homeostasis and basic physiological processes
- Relevance of A&P to radiology practice
2. Skeletal System (Major Emphasis for Limited Scope Techs)
- Bone structure and function
- Classification of bones and joints
- Major bones of axial and appendicular skeleton
- Common skeletal pathologies (fractures, osteoporosis, arthritis)
- Radiographic applications: extremities, chest, spine, skull
3. Muscular System
- Muscle tissue types and functions
- Major muscle groups relevant to positioning and movement
- Muscle injuries and disorders
- Radiographic relevance: understanding movement and patient positioning
4. Cardiovascular System
- Anatomy of the heart and blood vessels
- Circulation pathways (systemic, pulmonary)
- Common conditions: hypertension, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction
- Radiographic applications: chest imaging, angiography awareness
5. Respiratory System
- Structures of the upper and lower respiratory tracts
- Physiology of breathing and gas exchange
- Conditions: pneumonia, COPD, asthma, pneumothorax
- Radiographic applications: chest X-rays, patient breathing instructions
6. Digestive System
- Organs and functions of digestion
- Accessory organs (liver, pancreas, gallbladder)
- Common conditions: obstruction, ulcers, gallstones
- Radiographic applications: barium studies (upper GI, BE) – awareness for limited scope
7. Urinary System
- Anatomy of kidneys, ureters, bladder, urethra
- Functions in fluid balance and waste removal
- Conditions: kidney stones, infections, hydronephrosis
- Radiographic applications: KUB imaging, IVP awareness
8. Reproductive System
- Male and female anatomy overview
- Reproductive physiology basics
- Common conditions: enlargement, cysts, cancers
- Radiographic applications: limited awareness of pelvic imaging relevance
9. Nervous System
- Central and peripheral nervous system structures
- Neurons and nerve conduction basics
- Disorders: stroke, herniated disc, neuropathy
- Radiographic applications: spine and head imaging awareness
10. Integration & Clinical Relevance
- Correlation of anatomy and physiology with radiographic exams
- How pathologies alter imaging appearance
- Case study review: extremity trauma, chest disease, spine pathology
- Practical link: interpreting requisitions and patient history in context of A&P
By the end of the course, students will understand how normal anatomy and physiology appear in medical imaging.