Training activity information
Details
Assess the clinical relevance of the CT and CBCT scanning protocols available for one anatomical site
Type
Developmental training activity (DTA)
Evidence requirements
Evidence the activity has been undertaken by the trainee​.
Reflection on the activity at one or more time points after the event including learning from the activity and/or areas of the trainees practice for development.
An action plan to implement learning and/or to address skills or knowledge gaps identified.
Considerations
- Protocol optimisation, including balance of dose and image quality for the clinical application
- Different reconstruction techniques including metal artefact reconstruction
- Image parameters (e.g. slice thickness, kV, mA)
- Use of contrast agents and its impact on treatment planning
- Data export functionality
Reflective practice guidance
The guidance below is provided to support reflection at different time points, providing you with questions to aid you to reflect for this training activity. They are provided for guidance and should not be considered as a mandatory checklist. Trainees should not be expected to provide answers to each of the guidance questions listed.
Before action
- What are the key parameters that define CT and CBCT scanning protocols (e.g., slice thickness, FOV, kVp, mAs)?
- How do these parameters affect image quality (e.g., spatial resolution, contrast, noise)?
- What are the typical scanning protocols used for the chosen anatomical site?
- What are the dose implications of different protocols? What are the specific requirements for imaging used for planning versus IGRT?
In action
- While reviewing the protocols, are you considering the balance between image quality and radiation dose?
- Are you evaluating the appropriateness of the scanning parameters (e.g., slice thickness, field of view) for the specific anatomical site and clinical objectives?
- Are you noting any potential adjustments or optimisations that could improve the clinical relevance of the protocols?
On action
- What CT and CBCT scanning protocols did you assess for the chosen anatomical site? What parameters did you consider (e.g., slice thickness, field of view, radiation dose)?
- What did you learn about the clinical relevance of different scanning protocols in terms of image quality and potential impact on treatment planning and delivery? Were there any protocols that seemed particularly well-suited or less appropriate?
- How will this assessment influence your understanding of imaging protocols and their optimisation? What further learning in CT and CBCT protocols would be valuable?
Beyond action
- Having gained more experience with treatment planning and on-treatment imaging, how do you now evaluate the clinical relevance of the CT and CBCT protocols you assessed? Have you observed the impact of these protocols on image quality, registration accuracy, or dose?
- How has your understanding of the optimisation of imaging protocols for radiotherapy purposes evolved?
- How has your knowledge of CT and CBCT protocols contributed to discussions about imaging optimisation or the implementation of new imaging technologies?
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 3 |
Outcome
Apply appropriate guidance, regulations and codes of practice to ensure patient safety in all elements of practice. |
| # 5 |
Outcome
Explain and critically analyse the use of pre-treatment and on-treatment imaging within radiotherapy. |