Course Description
Computed tomography (CT) is one of the primary imaging modalities in the radiology department, capable of providing high-quality images in a short scan time. Acquiring a CT image first depends on setting appropriate imaging parameters to produce the X-ray beam and ensuring the correct anatomy is scanned. Depending on the protocol, there are different methods for acquiring CT images, including axial, helical, volumetric, and dual-energy CT scanning. After acquisition, the images are reconstructed and postprocessed for optimal viewing, with postprocessing techniques like multiplanar reformation and 3-dimensional reconstructions that are used to view anatomy from different angles while highlighting specific tissues. This course will essentially provide a review of some of the basic concepts of image production, display, quality, and reconstruction methods in CT. Specifically, the relationship between factors involved in image production, display, and manipulation will be explored. The ways in which image quality is impacted by noise, spatial resolution, contrast resolution, and artifacts will be outlined. Common imaging artifacts will be discussed, including their causes, appearances, and ways to minimize them. This course will also cover the radiologic technologist's (RT's) role in performing quality control tests and review how facilities can receive American College of Radiology Accreditation for their CT department. Finally, an overview of radiology informatics systems will be included, specifically regarding picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) networks, digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) files, and health records.

Learning Objectives
After completing this course, the participant should be able to:

• SUMMARIZE how CT image acquisition parameters affect X-ray production and image capture.
• DESCRIBE how CT image display options can be altered to assist in image viewing and diagnosis.
• OUTLINE CT postprocessing techniques and their uses in a clinical setting.
• EXPLAIN how CT image quality factors affect image appearance.
• IDENTIFY artifacts on CT images and describe their causes and methods for reduction.
• DISCUSS medical imaging informatics, including the roles of PACS, DICOM, and medical records.

Categories: CT, PACS, Quality Management

In order to receive CE credit, you must first complete the activity content. When completed, go to the "Take CE Test!" link to access the post-test.

Submit the completed answers to determine if you have passed the post-test assessment. You must answer 21 out of 28 questions correctly to receive CE credit. You will have no more than 3 attempts to successfully complete the post-test.

Participants successfully completing the activity content and passing the post-test will receive 2.5 ARRT Category A credits.

Approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for ARRT Category A credit.

Approved by the state of Florida for ARRT Category A credit (for Technical credits).

Texas direct credit.

This activity may be available in multiple formats or from different sponsors. ARRT does not allow CE activities such as Internet courses, home study programs, or directed readings to be repeated for CE credit in the same biennium.

Category	Content Area	Credits
Computed Tomography	Image Production	2.5
Magnetic Resonance	Image Production	0.25
Nuclear Medicine	Image Production	1.25
Radiation Therapy	Procedures	1
Radiography	Image Production	0.25

Category	Subcategory	Credits
Computed Tomography	Image Evaluation and Archiving	1.75
Computed Tomography	Image Formation	0.75
Magnetic Resonance	Data Acquisition, Processing, and Storage	0.25
Nuclear Medicine	Instrumentation	1.25
Radiation Therapy	Treatment Volume Localization	1
Radiography	Equipment Operation and Quality Assurance	0.25

Category	Credits
Digital	0.25