Our objective for this project is to create an optimal technique chart for specific body parts with a fixed kVp while taking into consideration SID, OID, grid, and mAs using the Thales FPD system. By creating this technique chart, we will be able to follow the rule of ALARA to protect the patient, but still produce constant high-quality images.
We will start the experiment by using the Bontrager kVp range for a specific body part. We will consider the mAs needed depending on the thickness of the part by using past lab experiments. Once we create our first projection, other projection techniques will be formulated based on comparative anatomy. We will be using the formula of increasing or decreasing mAs by 20% or 25%. An increase of 25% in mAs will increase the DI value by about one. And a decrease of mAs by 20% will decrease the DI value by about one. If we do not obtain a DI value within optimal range, we will adjust the technical factors until an optimal exposure is achieved.
Our goal with each projection is to maintain a DI value range of +/- 0.5.
Week 1:
1. Identifying our projections needed for our project.
2. Create a list of Bontrager kVp ranges for each specific anatomy.
3. Establish responsibilities for each group member.
4. Decide the logical order of projections set for the project.
5. Decide what formula we would be using to find optimal technical factors.
6. Complete project scope.
Week 2:
1. Initiate experiment with the AP Knee projection.
2. Using the mAs formula, continue onto the comparable anatomy of the knee, including the shoulder and clavicle.
3. Find the technical factors for the projections that require no grid.
Week 3:
1. Continue experiment with the wider and thicker anatomy.
2. Begin to develop our website
Week 4:
1. Finish experiment.
2. Complete our website
Week 5:
1. Publish our website
2. Complete individual analysis
Tasks and Responsibilities
1. We will decide the order of projections using comparable anatomy and kVp range.
2. Complete the experiment for each anatomy.
Alyssa: 1. Collect techniques from past lab reports.
2. Position the tube
3. Calculate the techniques
4. Start our website.
5. Submit documents and publish website.
Julieta: 1. Record measurements of the anatomy, DI values, technical factors, SID, and grid.
2. Position the phantom.
3. Annotate the resulting image to send to PACS.
4. Finalize website and documents.
Gather past lab experiments’ technical factors and Bontrager notes.
Measure each anatomical part.
Position the phantom for each part.
Position the x-ray tube
Calculate the mAs needed based on anatomy thickness.
Conduct experiments for each.
Record data gathered.
Bontrager
Procedures PowerPoints
Past lab reports
Flat panel detector system
Full body phantom
Calipers for measurements
Calculator
Lead Markers