Performance Assessment / Quality Assurance in Cross Sectional Modalities

These flashcards cover key concepts related to quality assurance practices and tests for cross-sectional imaging modalities, including ultrasound, CT, and MRI.

What is the purpose of quality assurance (QA) in cross-sectional imaging modalities?

To ensure equipment performs adequately for clinical use and to detect performance changes over time.

Name one guidance document for ultrasound QA testing.

IPEM Report 102 & BMUS QA guidelines.

What are the three levels of QA outlined in BMUS guidelines?

Level 1: Infection control and scanner damage inspection; Level 2: Basic scanner and transducer testing; Level 3: More comprehensive testing.

What is the main focus of today's session on cross-sectional imaging QA?

Understanding the importance of quality assurance and familiarizing with types of QA tests in Ultrasound, CT, and MRI.

What is one potential cause of image dropout in ultrasound scanning?

Traumatic damage to the acoustic array.

How often should Level 1 QA tests be performed on ultrasound equipment?

After every patient use.

What does the element dropout test in ultrasound detect?

Any loss of echoes indicating dropout.

What characterizes Level A tests in CT QA?

They are more frequent, quick pass/fail tests conducted by radiographers.

What does SNR stand for in MRI quality assessment?

Signal to Noise Ratio.

What is a major factor affecting image uniformity in MRI?

Inhomogeneities in the main magnetic field.