MRS543 Abdominal and Pelvic Ultrasound (8)

This subject covers ultrasound techniques and the interpretation of images for sonography of the upper abdomen, pelvis and abdominal wall. The emphasis is on using the optimal technical approach and patient management to enable successful demonstration of normal anatomy and diagnosis of pathology and / or trauma. Students will use a critical analytical approach to identify and understand the clinical questions and to demonstrate appropriate scanning techniques and acquisition of sonographic information. Interpretation of sonographic findings will be underpinned by a thorough understanding of the relevant anatomic, physiologic and pathological processes.

It is expected that students undertaking this subject have experience in diagnostic ultrasound or are concurrently undertaking supervised clinical practice.

Availability

Session 1 (30)
Online
Wagga Wagga Campus

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: MRS543. Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject Information

Grading System

HD/FL

Duration

One session

School

School of Dentistry and Health Sciences

Assumed Knowledge

Students are expected to have foundation knowledge in anatomy, physiology and pathology, and an understanding of principles of ultrasound.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to explain ultrasound scanning techniques for: upper abdomen and female pelvis including transvaginal scanning technique
  • be able to describe the sectional anatomy of the abdomen and pelvis with a focus on the major vessels, retroperitoneum, urinary and gastrointestinal tracts, and male pelvis (including transrectal ultrasound)
  • be able to present sonographic images demonstrating a logical and methodical approach to scanning and communicate the findings clearly and accurately
  • be able to discuss, using appropriate terminology and diagrams, the normal gross anatomical relationships of the abdomen and pelvis
  • be able to identify a range of normal and abnormal image appearances of the areas listed in the syllabus and explain the contributing role and nature of pathologic and developmental processes
  • be able to explain the significance of clinical tests and complementary modalities relevant to topics within the syllabus

Syllabus

This subject will cover the following topics:
  • Gross and sonographic anatomy and pathological processes of the abdomen, male pelvis and female pelvis
  • Indications for ultrasound of abdomen, male pelvis and female pelvis
  • Scanning protocols and techniques, including relevant measurements
  • The contribution ultrasound makes to the clinical management of patients
  • The role and value of complementary imaging
  • Upper abdominal sonography including: aorta and retroperitoneum; pancreas; liver and biliary tree; urinary tract; adrenal glands; spleen; gastro-intestinal tract
  • Sonography of the anterior abdominal wall
  • Sonography of the male and female pelvis

Indicative Assessment

The following table summarises the assessment tasks for the online offering of MRS543 in Session 1 2020. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated and can also differ to suit the mode of study (online or on campus).

Item Number
Title
Value %
1
Online test - gross and ultrasound anatomy
10
2
Critique of abdominal case images and protocol
10
3
Forum activity - pathological case presentation
15
4
Case history
20
5
Final exam
45

The information contained in the CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: May 2021. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.

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