Syllabus

Module 1: Fundamentals of Diagnostic Imaging (6 Hours)
Introduction to Diagnostic Imaging: History and evolution of diagnostic imaging techniques, Overview of imaging modalities- Ionizing and non-ionizing imaging systems
Physics of Imaging: Interaction of electromagnetic radiation with matter
Image formation: Resolution, contrast, noise, and artifacts
Radiation Units and Measurements: Radiation dose units (Gray, Sievert), Dose limits and safety protocols

Module 2: X-Ray and Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging (8 Hours)
X-Ray Imaging: Principles of X-ray generation and detection, Equipment and components- X-ray tube, detectors, and grids, Applications- Chest X-rays, fluoroscopy, and mammography
Computed Tomography (CT)- Principles of CT imaging, Image reconstruction and slice thickness, Multi-slice and helical CT systems, Clinical applications and advancements in CT imaging
Radiation Dose in CT: Dose reduction strategies- Filters, shielding, and iterative reconstruction

Module 3: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Ultrasound (8 Hours)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Principles of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), Pulse sequences: T1- and T2-weighted imaging, Instrumentation- Magnets, gradient coils, and radiofrequency systems, Functional MRI (fMRI) and advanced applications
Ultrasound Imaging: Acoustic principles- Reflection, refraction, and attenuation, Transducers and beam formation, Doppler ultrasound- Color flow imaging and echocardiography, Applications in obstetrics, cardiology, and soft tissue imaging

Module 4: Nuclear Medicine and Radiation Therapy (6 Hours)
Nuclear Medicine Imaging: Principles of radionuclide imaging- SPECT and PET, Radiopharmaceuticals and their clinical applications, Hybrid imaging systems- PET-CT and PET-MRI
Radiation Therapy: Basics of radiation therapy- External beam therapy and brachytherapy, Techniques- 3D conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), IMRT, and stereotactic radiosurgery, Role of radiation therapy in cancer treatment

Module 5: Radiation Biology and Safety (5 Hours)
Radiation Biology: Biological effects of ionizing radiation: Acute and chronic effects, Radiation-induced DNA damage and repair mechanisms, Radiation carcinogenesis- Risks and stochastic vs. deterministic effects
Radiation Protection and Safety: Principles of radiation protection: ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), Safety guidelines and regulatory frameworks (IAEA, ICRP), Personal and environmental monitoring techniques

To provide an in-depth understanding of the principles and evolution of diagnostic imaging modalities, focusing on ionizing and non-ionizing systems.

To develop a strong foundation in the physics, instrumentation, and clinical applications of X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound imaging techniques.

To introduce the principles of nuclear medicine imaging and radiation therapy, emphasizing their role in diagnostics and cancer treatment.

To educate students on the biological effects of radiation, mechanisms of radiation damage, and safety protocols for radiation protection in clinical and research environments.

After successful completion of this course, the students will be able to:
CO1: Explain the principles, instrumentation, and applications of diagnostic imaging modalities, including X-ray, CT, MRI, and ultrasound, in medical practice. (Knowledge: Level 2 - Understand)
CO2: Analyze the interaction of radiation with matter and evaluate image quality parameters such as resolution, contrast, and noise in various imaging systems. (Skill: Level 4 - Analyze)
CO3: Assess the radiation dose, safety protocols, and dose reduction strategies in diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications. (Skill: Level 5 - Evaluate)
CO4: Apply the principles of radionuclide imaging and radiation therapy techniques for cancer diagnosis and treatment. (Skill: Level 3 - Apply)
CO5: Demonstrate an understanding of radiation biology and implement appropriate radiation protection measures in clinical and research settings. (Competence: Level 3 - Apply)

W.R. Hendee & E.R. Rightnour, Medical Imaging Physics, Mosbey , 3rd ed,1992

Jerrold T. Bushberg, J. Anthony Seibert, Edwin M. Leidholdt Jr., and John M. Boone, Essential Physics of Medical Imaging, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins , 2nd Edition,2001

Reiner Salzer, Biomedical Imaging: Principles and Applications, Wiley-Interscience , 2008

Dowsett, Kenny & Johnston, The Physics of Diagnostic Imaging, Chapman & Hall Medical , 1998