B8415 - Physics of X-Rays and Radioprotection

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, the student acquires foundational knowledge of X-ray physics, image formation, and radioprotection, along with practical skills in safely performing radiographic procedures. In particular, the student: knows the physical principles behind the production of X-rays and how the X-ray image is formed; knows the principles of radioprotection; is able to apply the principles of radioprotection during an X-ray session; is able to take a limb radiograph in a small animal model.

Course contents

This Course is part of the Integrated Course "Movement, Skin, and Nervous System".

The Integrated Course aims to provide the student with adequate knowledge of the anatomical organization, functioning, and biochemical mechanisms underlying the metabolism of the nervous system, the musculoskeletal system, and the skin and its appendages, essential for recognizing the normal aspects of clinical relevance in veterinary species. Additionally, the student gains expertise in topographical anatomy and imaging techniques applicable to these systems, including their relevance to kinetics and kinematics.

The Integrated Course "Movement, Skin, and Nervous System" contributes to the achievement of the following ESEVT Day One Competences: 1.1, 1.5, 1.9, 1.10, 1.11, 1.17, 1.21, 1.24.

 

Specific Course contents:

• Physical principles of X-ray production;
• Interaction of X-rays with matter;
• Image formation and radiographic contrast;
• Basic components of an X-ray system (conventional radiography and computed tomography);
• Basic principles of computed tomography (CT) and comparison with conventional radiography;
• Basic principles of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and differences from ionizing imaging techniques;
• Principles and regulatory basis of radioprotection

Readings/Bibliography

• Zwingenberger A., Wisner E., Atlas of Small Animal CT and MRI, John Wiley and Sons Ltd, 2015
• D.E. Thrall Textbook of Veterinary Diagnostic Radiology - 8th Edition, Saunders Philadelphia , 2024.

• Lecture slides

Teaching methods

The course includes both frontal lectures and practical sessions aimed at providing students with a solid understanding of X-ray physics and safe radiographic practice. During the lectures, students are introduced to the key physical principles underlying the production and interaction of X-rays, image formation mechanisms, and the concept of radiation safety in veterinary settings.

The practical component focuses on developing procedural skills, including the setup and safe handling of radiographic equipment, and the execution of a standard limb radiograph in a small animal model. These sessions emphasize correct positioning, exposure settings, and the application of radioprotection measures.

Assessment methods

The final exam of the Integrated Course "Movement, Skin, and Nervous System" consists of two parts.

• The first part is a written test comprising 60 multiple choice questions, covering topics from all components of the Integrated Course, and is designed to assess the student's comprehensive knowledge of the subject matter.

  Each correct question will earn 0.5 points; no points will be subtracted in case of wrong answer or unanswered question. The use of supporting material or devices such as calculators, books, notebooks, class notes, etc. is not authorized during the test. If needed, a follow-up discussion will allow the Candidate to comment on the wrong answers.

  The test assignment will last 1.5h and will be considered as successful with a minimum grade of 18/30.

• The second part is a practical examination held in the Clinical Skills Lab or at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, including the execution of manual procedures of the physical examination and the description and interpretation of images or videos related to the different imaging techniques, allowing the evaluation of the acquisition of practical and verbal competences. To pass the practical examination, the student must demonstrate sufficient competences, obtaining a minimum grade of 18/30.

The final grade for the Integrated Course is calculated as the weighted average of the written test (60%) and the practical assessment (40%). Students can register for the exam through the online AlmaEsami platform (http://almaesami.unibo.it/ ). In case of failure, the exam may be retaken after a minimum of three weeks. In accordance with Unibo teaching regulations, Article 16, Paragraph 5, students are entitled to refuse a passing grade on one occasion.

In compliance with Law 104/1992 and Law 170/2010, and in alignment with institutional inclusion policies, students with certified disabilities or specific learning disorders—as well as those with recognized special educational needs—will receive appropriate accommodations during assessments. Such students should promptly contact the course instructor and inform the University’s Disability and SLD Support Service [https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en] . A faculty member is appointed to oversee this service within the Department [https://scienzemedicheveterinarie.unibo.it/it/dipartimento/organizzazione/referenti-istituzionali] .

Teaching tools

Slide sets and other media such as videos and interactive resources will be used during lectures.

Teaching materials are available on the Virtuale platform and could be reached through the link on the teacher webpage.

Office hours

See the website of Alessia Diana