IMAGING PRODUCTION AND EVALUATION
Class details...
An introduction to the principles of radiographic image production and evaluation. Students will learn the factors that influence image quality, including exposure, contrast, density, detail, and distortion, and how to apply proper techniques for limited-scope diagnostic imaging exams. Emphasis is placed on equipment operation, technique selection, image critique, and recognizing common positioning and exposure errors.
Class Modules...
1. Introduction to Radiographic Imaging
- Role of image production in limited radiology practice
- Importance of high-quality images for diagnosis and patient care
- Scope of responsibilities for limited diagnostic radiology technologists
2. Radiographic Equipment Basics
- X-ray tube and control panel components
- Function of mAs, kVp, exposure time, and SID
- Beam limitation and collimation
- Introduction to digital imaging systems (CR, DR)
3. Image Formation Principles
- X-ray interactions with matter (attenuation, scatter, absorption)
- Primary vs. secondary radiation
- Factors affecting image sharpness, contrast, density/brightness, and distortion
4. Exposure Factors & Technique Selection
- mAs and image receptor exposure
- kVp and contrast relationships
- Distance and the inverse square law
- Technique charts for limited-scope exams (extremities, chest, spine)
- Automatic exposure control (AEC) awareness (if applicable)
5. Image Evaluation: Quality Standards
- Criteria for diagnostic-quality images:
- Proper density/brightness
- Adequate contrast
- Optimal sharpness/recorded detail
- Correct positioning
- Common errors: motion, improper technique, artifacts, incorrect positioning
- Rejection analysis and reducing repeat exposures
6. Positioning & Imaging for Limited Scope Exams
- Upper extremity, lower extremity, chest, spine, and skull basics
- Proper centering, alignment, and use of positioning aids
- Common positioning pitfalls and corrections
- Image critique specific to limited exams
7. Digital Image Processing & Storage
- Basics of image processing in CR and DR
- PACS systems and image retrieval
- Image manipulation: windowing, leveling, magnification
- Importance of maintaining diagnostic integrity
8. Image Critique and Case Studies
- Review of clinical images for quality and errors
- Linking anatomy, positioning, and technique to image quality
- Case-based analysis of limited-scope radiographic exams
9. Integration & Professional Practice
- Combining image production principles with patient care
- Documentation of image quality and repeat exposures
- Professional responsibility in maintaining imaging standards
- Preparation for ARRT Limited Scope Exam imaging content
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Operate radiographic equipment safely and within scope.
- Apply appropriate technical factors for limited diagnostic imaging.
- Evaluate images for diagnostic quality, accuracy, and patient safety.
- Minimize repeat exposures through correct technique and positioning.