CFU
6
Length
14 Weeks
Semester DD
First
Radioactivity, interaction of radiation with matter. Range of particles. Methods of radiation detection, dosimetric quantities and their measurement. Biological effects of radiation. Objectives of the radiation protection and exposure limits. Concepts on external radiation protection and internal dosimetry. Dosimeters. Gas detectors: ionization chamber and Geiger counters.
Photographic emulsions and film-badge. Working principles of : TAC, SPECT, PET, NMR.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
The course of study is aimed at providing an understanding of the most modern diagnostic and therapeutic techniques involving the use of ionizing radiation.
The educational objectives include the knowledge of the physical principles on which these methods are based, and the knowledge of the functioning and composition of the machines that are used for the delivery of therapeutic sessions or for performing morphological and functional diagnostic imaging.
KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
Students must have understood the problems related to the acquisition of morphological and functional diagnostic images, even in difficult and low contrast conditions, bearing in mind the radiation protection of the patient and the possibility of using particular techniques. Likewise, the field of use of radiotherapeutic techniques must be clear and the students should be able to identify the best solution for specific situations, including cost / benefit evaluation.
The students must also have a good knowledge of the techniques involving the use of ionizing radiation at present days in hospitals.
The verification of knowledge and comprehension skills is done through the presentation of a dissertation on a topic not covered in class and agreed with individual students, and on a final oral exam on the course program.
APPLYING KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING:
At the end of the course, students must be able to judge which type of diagnostic or therapeutic technique is most suitable in specific circumstances, having clear its strengths and applicability.
MAKING JUDGEMENTS:
Students must have developed the ability to perform bibliographic research and select interesting materials, in particular on the WEB. These skills are acquired during the study for exam preparation, deepening some specific topics also through the consultation of articles in scientific journals .
COMMUNICATION SKILLS:
Students must be able to present the diagnostic and therapy methods treated in the course and to understand and present similar ones, learned through bibliographical research and / or study of scientific articles to an audience of specialists and common people.
LEARNING SKILLS:
Students must be able to tackle new fields through independent study. They must acquire the ability to continue their studies in a PhD or medical physics specialization schools.