- Approval: This course is approved by ASRT - an approved continuing education provider of ARRT.
- Release Date: 9/21/2023
- Expiration Date: 10/1/2029
Deborah Greer, MEd, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT)®
*Clinical Coordinator, Radiography, CT and MR, Mercer County Community College, West Windsor, NJ.
Address correspondence to: Deborah Greer, MEd, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT)®. E-mail: debgreer724@msn.com.
Disclosure statement: The author reports having no significant financial or advisory relationships with corporate organizations related to this activity.
ABSTRACT
Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging modality that employs X-rays to create cross-sectional slices through the body. In addition to many other modalities, CT has been through many significant clinical and technological advances since its development over 50 years ago. The goal of these advancements has been to improve the hardware component and optimize the technical parameters in order to improve image quality and lower radiation dose. In this course, various principles of CT imaging of the head will be explored, including the procedures and protocols, safety and dose reduction techniques, image acquisition strategies, and an extensive examination of image display as well as archiving and informatics. Basic concepts of image evaluation with an extensive look at artifact recognition and reduction as well as the use of contrast media to enhance anatomical structures will be reviewed. Protocols for specific head CT imaging studies will be outlined and several technological advances in head CT imaging will be explored.