MRI for Technologists:
Clinical Magnetic Resonance Angiography

Format: Online Activity
Credit:  2.0 ARRT Category A
Fee for Credit Certificate: $15
 

Click ENROLL NOW to view or download this program and complete the POSTTEST online.

MRI for Technologists is a training program designed to meet the needs of radiologic technologists entering or working in the MRI field. These units are designed to augment classroom instruction and on-site training for radiologic technology students and professionals planning to take the review board examinations, as well as to provide a review for those looking to refresh their knowledge base in MR imaging.

COURSE OVERVIEW
The skill of the technologist is the single most important factor in obtaining good quality diagnostic images. A successful MRI examination is the culmination of many factors under the direct control of the technologist.

Clinical Magnetic Resonance Angiography introduces the learner to concepts and techniques required for obtaining high quality magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). This unit familiarizes the learner with basic physics of MRA, the role of contrast–enhanced MRA, bolus detection techniques, and MRA image and data postprocessing techniques. MRA of the body and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) will also be covered.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES
After completing this educational activity, the reader will be able to:

• Describe the role of gadolinium-based contrast agents in vascular imaging
• Explain the role of phase contrast and time-of-flight imaging to create images using magnetic resonance angiography
• Discuss bolus detection techniques and timing methods
• Recognize patient risk factors and respond to the most common adverse patient reactions to MRI contrast media
• Identify common postprocessing reconstructions used in MRA
• List the imaging techniques used in MRA and MRV for various portions of the vasculature, including those that benefit from the use of contrast enhancement
• Describe how peripheral run-off images are acquired with contrast media using a stepping table

EDUCATIONAL CREDIT
This program has been approved by the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) for 2.0 hours of ARRT Category A continuing education credit.

HOW TO RECEIVE CREDIT
Estimated time to complete this activity is 2.0 hours. The posttest and evaluation are required to receive credit and must be completed online.

• In order to access the posttest and evaluation, enroll in the online course at www.icpme.us.
• Read the entire activity.
• Log in to your account at www.icpme.us to complete the posttest and evaluation, accessible through the course link in your account.
• A passing grade of at least 75% is required to be eligible to receive credit.
• You may take the test up to three times.
• Upon receipt of a passing grade, you will be able to print a certificate of credit from your online account.
• There is a $15 fee to process a certificate of credit.

FACULTY
Our appreciation goes to Thomas Schrack, BS, ARMRIT for his review and update of this material. We would also like to acknowledge the original authors of this material:

Jeffrey J. Brown, MD, FACR, MBA
Professor of Radiology
Washington University School of Medicine
St. Louis, MO

Thomas Schrack, BS, ARMRIT
Manager of MR Education and Technical Development
Fairfax Radiological Consultants
Adjunct Faculty and Clinical MR Instructor
Northern Virginia Community College
Fairfax, VA

Alan H. Stolpen, MD, PhD
Associate Professor of Radiology
Co-Director of MRI
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
Iowa City, IA

Daniel R. Thedens, PhD
Assistant Professor of Radiology
University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA


ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
For their contributions to this material, special thanks go to:

Stephen Dashnaw, ARMRIT
Columbia University
New York, NY

Mark Flyer, MD
Maimonides Medical Center
Brooklyn, NY  


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DISCLAIMER
Participants have an implied responsibility to use the newly acquired information to enhance patient outcomes and their own professional development. The information presented in this activity is not meant to serve as a guideline for patient management. Any procedures, medications, or other courses of diagnosis or treatment discussed or suggested in this activity should not be used by clinicians without evaluation of their patient’s conditions and possible contraindications on dangers in use, review of any applicable manufacturer’s product information, and comparison with recommendations of other authorities.