CTG 220 - CT Instrumentation

1. Describe the components of the CT imaging system.
2. Describe the various types of digital receptors.
3. Describe picture archival and communications system (PACS) and its function.
4. Identify components of a PACS.
5. Describe HIPAA concerns with electronic information.
6. Examine the potential impact of digital radiographic systems on patient exposure. Discuss the fundamentals of x-ray generating equipment, x-ray production and its interaction with matter.
7. Discuss common artifacts found on CT images.
8. Describe ways to eliminate common artifacts found on the CT image.
9. Identify the common quality control procedures performed in the CT department.

II. Review common computer terms applicable to CT image information.

III. Describe the components of the CT imaging system.

IV. Explain the interaction of x-rays with matter as to the formation of the CT image.

V. Explain the configuration of the CT radiographic tube and its components.

VI. Define the heat load capacity of the CT radiographic tube.

VII. Explain heat loading issues associated with conventional and spiral CT scanning.

VIII. Explain the functions of collimators in CT.

IX. Explain the location and function of detectors used in CT systems.

X. Trace the sequence of events in CT scanning from the application of electrical current to the CT radiographic tube to the CT detector.

XI. Identify the most commonly used materials in CT detectors.

XII. Compare and contrast the types of CT detectors.

XIII. Define “attenuation” and list the associated parameters.

XIV. Define “linear attenuation coefficient.”

XV. Explain electronic signal formation from the detector to the analog to digital converter.

XVI. Define and describe the functions of the data acquisition system (DAS).

XVII. List the CT computer data processing steps.

XVIII. Name the functions of the array processor 

XIX. Identify filters, algorithms, and kernel settings commonly used for CT.

XX. Distinguish between “raw data,” “image data,” and “scan data.”

XXI. Explain the difference between reconstructing and reformatting an image.

XXII. Describe commonly used postprocessing techniques for various CT procedures.

XXIII. Explain the slip ring technology used for spiral scanning.

XXIV. Discuss the differences between low-voltage and high-voltage slip-ring CT scanners.

XXV. Identify the hardware needs for various CT procedures.

XXVI.  Identify the software needs for the various CT procedures.

XXVII. Define and explain the correlation between CT and each of the following: n Pitch; n X, y, z coordinates; n Scan field of view (SFOV); n Display field of view (DFOV); n CT/Hounsfield number; n Partial volume averaging; n Window width (ww); window level (wl); n Spatial resolution; n Contrast resolution; n Noise; n Annotation; n Scanogram/scout/pilot/topogram/survey; n Region of interest (ROI); n Conventional vs. volumetric data acquisition; n Half-scan, full-scan, overscan; n Interscan delay; n Rays and views; n Sampling (angular and ray).

XXVIII. List the selectable scan factors and explain how each affects the CT image.

XXIX. Name the factors affecting image quality in CT.

XXX. Name the common controls found on CT operator consoles and describe how and why each is used.

XXXI. Describe the quality control steps that may be taken to assure constant high-quality CT images.

XXXII. List the types of artifacts and name and describe the appearance of those most commonly affecting CT images.

XXXIII. Explain how CT artifacts may be eliminated or reduced.

XXXIV. Discuss the issues associated with transmitting and receiving images from remote imaging centers.

XXXV. Discuss the various means of archiving images.

XXXVI. Name the radiation protection devices that may be used to reduce patient dose in CT and describe the correct application of each.

XXXVII. Identify technique selection methods and software applications that lead to a reduction in patient dose.

XXXVIII. Identify current methods for measuring the patient’s CT dose.

PowerPoint/Lecture: 40-50%

Discussions: 20-30%

Activities: 20-30%

Research: 10-20%

Exams                                     

Discussion Questions               

Assignments                            

Essay Project                           

Final Exam