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Unit of study_

MRTY5052: Magnetic Resonance A

Semester 2, 2022 [Online] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

This Unit of Study explores the application of standard Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) sequences, protocols, and techniques used in clinical musculoskeletal imaging. These techniques include variations of spin echo, gradient echo, and inversion recovery. MRI hardware, RF coils, spatial encoding, fat suppression techniques, and common image artifacts are reviewed. MR safety aspects from the perspective of both staff and patients are discussed. Learning is supported by relevant website and video resources together with peer­reviewed clinical and research publications to demonstrate the appropriate application of different MR sequences and modifications required for a range of MSK patient presentations.

Unit details and rules

Unit code MRTY5052
Academic unit Clinical Imaging
Credit points 6
Prohibitions
? 
None
Prerequisites
? 
MRTY5051
Corequisites
? 
None
Assumed knowledge
? 

None

Available to study abroad and exchange students

No

Teaching staff

Coordinator Sheryl Foster, sheryl.foster@sydney.edu.au
Lecturer(s) Sheryl Foster, sheryl.foster@sydney.edu.au
Type Description Weight Due Length
Final exam (Record+) Type B final exam Final exam
Online invigilated exam
35% Formal exam period
Due date: 16 Nov 2022 at 17:00
1.5 hours
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10
Small continuous assessment Discussion and tutorial contributions
Online discussion posts and tutorial tasks
25% Multiple weeks Submissions during semester
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO10 LO9 LO8 LO7 LO6 LO5 LO4 LO3 LO2
In-semester test (Record+) Type B in-semester exam Quiz
Online invigilated exam
20% Week 05
Due date: 30 Aug 2022 at 17:00
50 minutes
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5
Assignment Essay/Protocol Task
Essay/Protocol task
20% Week 09
Due date: 09 Oct 2022 at 23:59
1000 words
Outcomes assessed: LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9
Type B final exam = Type B final exam ?
Type B in-semester exam = Type B in-semester exam ?

Assessment summary

  • Quiz: The quiz will cover the content of the first 4 weeks of semester. A range of questions types may be used, e.g. multiple choice, fill in the blank, matching text, etc.
  • Essay/Protocol task: 1000 word document to be submitted through Turnitin. Details available on Canvas
  • Final exam: The exam will include a range of different question styles, e.g. multiple choice questions, single word, short answer and an extended response question. Students will be examined on the material covered during weeks 5 to13 of the semester
  • Discussion and tutorial contributions: Students make weekly discussion posts to an online moderated forum and complete tutorial tasks in Canvas.

Detailed information for each assessment can be found on Canvas.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name

Mark range

Description

High distinction

85 - 100

Mastery of concepts demonstrates deep understanding and ability to integrate and transfer knowledge to different clinical scenarios; completion of assessment tasks shows an advanced synthesis of ideas; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is very well presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an outstanding level.

Distinction

75 - 84

Excellent achievement, consistent evidence of deep understanding and application of knowledge in MRI; task completion shows advanced understanding of concepts; demonstration of initiative, complex understanding and analysis; work is well-presented; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a superior level.

Credit

65 - 74

Confident in explaining MRI concepts, with evidence of solid understanding, application and achievement; completion of tasks shows a relatively good understanding of material; work is well-presented with a minimum of errors; all criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to a high level.

Pass

50 - 64

Satisfactory level of engagement with and understanding of topic; some inconsistencies in
understanding and knowledge of MRI; work is adequately presented, with some errors
or omissions, most criteria addressed and learning outcomes achieved to an adequate level.

Fail

0 - 49

Unsatisfactory achievement and engagement with the medical science discipline; inadequate
understanding or fundamental misunderstanding of topics; most criteria and learning outcomes not clearly or adequately addressed or achieved; lack of effort/involvement in the unit.

 For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

  • Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
  • After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

Academic integrity

The Current Student website  provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. The University expects students and staff to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.  

We use similarity detection software to detect potential instances of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breach. If such matches indicate evidence of plagiarism or other forms of academic integrity breaches, your teacher is required to report your work for further investigation.

You may only use artificial intelligence and writing assistance tools in assessment tasks if you are permitted to by your unit coordinator, and if you do use them, you must also acknowledge this in your work, either in a footnote or an acknowledgement section.

Studiosity is permitted for postgraduate units unless otherwise indicated by the unit coordinator. The use of this service must be acknowledged in your submission.

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

WK Topic Learning activity Learning outcomes
Week 01 Magnetic resonance hardware and equipment Online class (6 hr) LO1
Week 02 Spatial encoding and k-space artefacts Online class (6 hr) LO1 LO3
Week 03 Magnetic resonance imaging safety Online class (6 hr) LO1 LO2 LO4
Week 04 Image parameters: what makes a good image? Online class (6 hr) LO1 LO3 LO4 LO5
Week 05 Sequences: spin echo Online class (6 hr) LO1 LO3 LO5 LO6
Week 06 Sequences: gradient echo Online class (6 hr) LO1 LO3 LO5 LO6
Week 07 Preparatory pulses and inversion recovery Online class (6 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 08 Fat suppression techniques Online class (6 hr) LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7
Week 09 Review of lower limb examinations, anatomy and indications - knee Online class (6 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5 LO8 LO9
Week 10 Review of lower limb examinations, anatomy and indications - ankle Online class (6 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5 LO8 LO9
Week 11 Review of upper limb examinations, anatomy and indications - shoulder Online class (6 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5 LO8 LO9
Week 12 Review of upper limb examinations, anatomy and indications - elbow Online class (6 hr) LO2 LO4 LO5 LO8 LO9
Week 13 1. Protocol optimisation and technical considerations in musculoskeletal imaging at 3T; 2. Gadolinium-based contrast agents Online class (6 hr) LO6 LO8 LO9 LO10

Attendance and class requirements

This unit of study is offered online with email and phone support.

Required materials: A desktop computer or laptop (not tablet) with a webcam and microphone (built-in or external) and connection to network with an internet speed of at least 3Mbps download and upload speed is mandatory for online invigilated exams.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

All readings for this unit can be accessed either through the Library eReserve available on Canvas or through links embedded in the weekly modules.

McRobbie, D., Moore, E., Graves, M. and Prince, M. (2017), MRI From Picture to Proton (3rd ed.), Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

  • LO1. identify each major component of magnetic resonance imaging hardware and equipment and its role in image production
  • LO2. understand the inherent safety issues and apply knowledge to create and maintain a safe magnetic resonance environment
  • LO3. demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts of spatial encoding and k-space acquisition methods across a range of clinical applications
  • LO4. identify image artifacts, their causes and appropriate minimisation strategies
  • LO5. understand how technical parameters are manipulated appropriately to optimise sequences and demonstrate an understanding of the effects on image weighting and image quality at both 1.5T and 3T
  • LO6. demonstrate an understanding of the technical differences between spin echo and gradient echo pulse sequences and apply this knowledge in the selection of the appropriate pulse sequence for optimal diagnostic outcome in musculoskeletal imaging
  • LO7. differentiate the fat suppression techniques used in musculoskeletal imaging, and identify the most appropriate technique in different clinical circumstances
  • LO8. identify appropriate diagnostic imaging protocols for standard musculoskeletal examinations with a focus on shoulder, elbow, knee and ankle
  • LO9. demonstrate a knowledge of the anatomy, common pathologies and clinical indications relating to the body regions listed in learning outcome 8
  • LO10. identify the advantages and disadvantages of the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents.

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1 Depth of disciplinary expertise

Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.

GQ2 Critical thinking and problem solving

Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.

GQ3 Oral and written communication

Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.

GQ4 Information and digital literacy

Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.

GQ5 Inventiveness

Generating novel ideas and solutions.

GQ6 Cultural competence

Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.

GQ7 Interdisciplinary effectiveness

Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.

GQ8 Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity

An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.

GQ9 Influence

Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes Graduate qualities
GQ1 GQ2 GQ3 GQ4 GQ5 GQ6 GQ7 GQ8 GQ9
LO1         
LO2         
LO3         
LO4         
LO5         
LO6         
LO7         
LO8         
LO9         
LO10         
Professional capabilities for medical radiation practice -
Competency code Taught, Practiced or Assessed Competency standard
1.1.a T A Apply knowledge of anatomy and physiology of the human body to practice.
1.1.b T A Apply knowledge of the scientific explanations underpinning disease and injuries affecting the human body to enable delivery of safe, high-quality examinations/treatment.
1.1.c T A Identify anatomical structures and physiological processes, injuries and diseases of the human body in medical images.
1.3.a T A Understand the different imaging and treatment pathways in medical radiation practice.
1.3.b T A Understand the modalities and equipment used in the different imaging and treatment pathways across medical radiation practice.
1.3.d T A Operate equipment and apply knowledge of laboratory procedures to practice when necessary.
1.4.a T A Understand the patient’s/client’s clinical history, referral and current medical information to confirm the requested or prescribed procedure is appropriate, drawing on knowledge of other imaging and treatment pathways.
1.4.b T A Determine the appropriate imaging and/or treatment protocols and priorities, which consider the information collected during the interaction with the patient/client and knowledge of imaging and/or treatment options.
1.4.c T A Adapt the requested examination/treatment to an individual patient/client considering available clinical information.
1.5.b T A Identify patient/client preparation requirements.
1.5.d T A Select appropriate equipment and triage patients/clients according to their clinical presentation, national standards and other factors.
1.5.e T A Identify contraindications and limitations of medical radiation services, determine appropriate adjustments to procedures.
1.6.a T A Consider the limitations/restrictions in the use of techniques and devices for reproducibility of procedures concerning the patient’s/client’s condition and presentation.
1.7.b T A Apply quality criteria to assure image quality, evaluate medical images and identify any urgent and/or unexpected findings.
1.7.c T A If the practitioner identifies any urgent or unexpected findings, take appropriate and timely action to ensure the immediate management of the patient/client.
1.7.d T A Provide appropriate patient/client care before, during and after the examination/treatment.
1.9.a T A Operate MRI systems safely and effectively.
1.9.b T A Apply knowledge of the principles of MRI physics and surrounding environment to ensure patient/client and others’ safety.
1.9.c T A Select equipment and imaging parameters relevant to the patient/client presentation and where appropriate, modify imaging parameters to achieve optimal diagnostic outcomes.
1.9.d T A Collaborate in the design and evaluation of MRI protocols.
1.9.e T A Perform and evaluate MRI examinations where appropriate, modify the examination according to the MRI findings and clinical presentation.
1.9.f T A Process image data sets.
Domain 2.1.a T A Understand and comply with legal responsibilities.
Domain 2.2.c T A Display appropriate professional behaviour in patient/client interactions.
Domain 2.3.b T A Recognise and respond appropriately to unsafe or unprofessional practice.
Domain 3.2.a T A Establish and maintain effective and respectful working relationships with health practitioners.

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

Very positive feedback from 2021 students. Refreshed the module structure for easier navigation to resources as well as recording individual introductions for each weekly module to increase virtual interaction with students. Also creating more opportunities for student-student and student-lecturer interaction in discussion board contributions and increasing the weighting to 25%. Decreased workload by reducing word count and re-weighting Assessment 2.

More information can be found on the Canvas website

Site visit guidelines

It is expected that students will visit the site at least 3 times per week to contribute to and keep abreast of student discussions as well as reviewing coursework and completing tutorial work

Disclaimer

The University reserves the right to amend units of study or no longer offer certain units, including where there are low enrolment numbers.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.