Program Overview

MRS341 Image Interpretation and Correlative Imaging

This is a theoretical subject that aims to formally develop fundamental image interpretation skills for conventional radiographic images of the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system using realistic clinical scenarios. Interpretations will be correlated with relevant clinical history and informed by evidence-based practice.

Subject Outlines

The subject outlines and assessment tasks are updated each session.

Availability

The subject is available in the following sessions:

• Session 1 (30)
  • On Campus: Port Macquarie Campus, Wagga Wagga Campus
  • Online: Wagga Wagga Campus
• Session 2 (60)
  • On Campus: Port Macquarie Campus, Wagga Wagga Campus
  • Online: Wagga Wagga Campus

Subject Information

Grading System

The grading system for this subject is HD/FL.

Duration

The duration of this subject is two sessions.

School

The school offering this subject is the School of Dentistry and Health Sciences.

Assumed Knowledge

The assumed knowledge for this subject includes:

• Applied radiographic anatomy as demonstrated on conventional radiographic images of the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal images

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Perform accurate oral and written interpretations using a systematic and logical approach to accurately describe normal, variant, and common abnormal appearances for conventional radiographic images of the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system
• Critically evaluate the effect of image quality and positioning when reviewing conventional radiographic images and suggest appropriate additional/follow-up imaging and/or patient management
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication when describing radiographic image appearances using appropriate and accurate scientific terminology
• Justify the appropriateness of imaging correlating with relevant clinical history and evidence-based practice
• Critically discuss the scientific and humanistic principles of diagnostic imaging used for conventional radiographic imaging of the chest, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system using evidence-based practice
• Identify individual learning needs through reflection to inform professional practice

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:

Module 1: Introduction to Image Interpretation

• History of radiographer-led image interpretation
• Red dot and written comments
• Search strategies and satisfaction of search
• Image perception and error
• Care pathways, client-centered care, and evidence-based practice
• Ethical and medico-legal considerations
• Reporting accuracy and audit of practice
• Reflective practice and action planning

Module 2: Musculoskeletal Image Interpretation - Appendicular

• Adequacy, Alignment, Bones, Cartilage, and Soft tissues (AABCS) Search Strategy for Musculoskeletal Image Interpretation
• Image interpretation terminology
• Applied radiographic anatomy
• Normal variants of the appendicular skeleton
• Trauma image interpretation of the appendicular musculoskeletal system with a focus on common presenting abnormalities (e.g., fracture, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries)
• Correlation of findings with clinical history, non-imaging diagnostics, and other imaging procedures

Module 3: Musculoskeletal Image Interpretation - Axial

• Applied radiographic anatomy
• Normal variants of the axial skeleton
• Trauma image interpretation of the axial musculoskeletal system with a focus on common presenting abnormalities (e.g., fracture, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries)
• Correlation of findings with clinical history, non-imaging diagnostics, and other imaging procedures

Module 4: Musculoskeletal Image Interpretation - Systemic

• Benign versus malignant
• Neoplastic disease
• Degenerative disease and common arthritides
• Non-accidental injury
• Congenital defects and anomalies

Module 5: Abdominal Image Interpretation

• Search strategy for conventional abdomen images
• Applied radiographic anatomy
• Normal variants
• Image interpretation of common presenting abnormalities and disease processes (e.g., abnormal bowel gas patterns, calcifications, foreign bodies, soft tissue, and abdominal organs)
• Iatrogenic devices
• Correlation of findings with clinical history, non-imaging diagnostics, and other imaging procedures

Module 6: Chest Image Interpretation

• Search strategy for conventional chest images
• Applied radiographic anatomy
• Normal variants
• Image interpretation of common presenting abnormalities and disease processes (e.g., disease of the lungs, mediastinum, heart, lymphatics, and cardiovascular)
• Iatrogenic devices
• Correlation of findings with clinical history, non-imaging diagnostics, and other imaging procedures