Introduction to medical imaging

• Explain how physical principles of diagnostic ultrasound determine image formation, resolution, and artifacts, and interpret ultrasound images in relation to these principles.
• Relate MRI image contrast and appearance to underlying physical principles, including relaxation mechanisms and acquisition parameters.
• Interpret planar X-ray images by explaining how X-ray interactions with matter influence image contrast and diagnostic information.
• Explain the principles of CT image reconstruction and evaluate their effects on image resolution, contrast, and common artifacts using CT image data.
• Explain and evaluate the fundamental physical principles of PET and SPECT imaging and compare their functional capabilities to anatomical imaging modalities.
• Process, visualize, and interpret planar (2D) and volumetric (3D) medical imaging datasets using Python-based tools.
• Compare and evaluate medical imaging modalities with respect to physical principles, image characteristics, and clinical applicability.
• Apply physical principles to analyze and interpret medical imaging datasets and to solve image-based quantitative and qualitative problems.
• Integrate imaging physics, dataset analysis, and experimental observations to investigate the composition of group-specific phantoms in collaborative project work.
• Analyze, synthesize, and communicate imaging findings in a structured scientific report demonstrating clear links between physical principles and observed image characteristics.
• Critically use digital and AI-based tools to support conceptual understanding, data analysis, and scientific communication in medical imaging.

Welcome to Introduction to Medical Imaging, where we delve into the fascinating world of visualizing the structure and function of organs within the human body. This course explores a variety of imaging methods crucial for medical diagnosis, including ultrasound, x-ray (both shadow images and tomographic images like CT scans), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as positron emission tomography (PET) and single photon emission computer tomography (SPECT).

Understanding the physical principles behind these imaging modalities is paramount, as they form the foundation for accurate interpretation and analysis of medical images. Your primary project revolves around a compelling challenge: determining the type of biological tissue within an unknown phantom using these imaging modalities.

Throughout the course, you’ll engage in collaborative learning within small groups, tackling problems related to the interpretation and analysis of medical images. In your groups you will investigate your individual phantoms. This involves acquiring images using different imaging modalities and applying the tools and techniques you’ve learned to analyze and interpret these images effectively.

22476, Physiology and anatomy. Good knowledge of Python is essential. It is an advantage to have completed course 22476.

Interactive lectures, practical exercises at DTU and Bispebjerg hospital, computer exercises, project work. The course requires the participants to be experienced in Python.