Maricopa Community Colleges  MRT250   19906-19962 
Official Course Description: MCCCD Approval: 06/27/95
MRT250 19906-19962 LEC 1 Credit(s) 1 Period(s)
Principles of Mammography
A course designed for the individual that is currently performing mammography or has a desire to learn more about the procedure. Anatomy, equipment, procedures, and quality assurance involved with mammography. Special situations, needle localization technique, and risk factors will be discussed. Prerequisites: None.
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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
 
MRT250   19906-19962 Principles of Mammography
1. Describe the anatomy and the radiosensitivity of the breast. (I)
2. Identify and describe the equipment, quality assurance procedures and imaging artifacts associated with mammography. (II)
3. Describe the different imaging options of mammography. (III)
4. Describe the technical considerations associated with mammography. (IV)
5. Discuss and describe how to alter standard positioning and technique for special situations during mammography. (V)
6. Describe the procedure and equipment for a breast needle localization. (VI)
7. Identify and describe different forms of pathology detected during mammography. (VII)
8. Explain the benefits and risks associated with mammography. (VIII)
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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
 
MRT250   19906-19962 Principles of Mammography
    I. Anatomy
        A. Tissue types
          1. Fibrous
          2. Glandular
          3. Adipose
        B. Tissue radiosensitivity
      II. Basic Equipment
          A. Basic equipment
            1. Target composition
            2. Filtration
            3. Heel effect
            4. Compression
            5. Grids
            6. Automatic exposure systems
          B. Quality assurance
            1. Processor
            2. X-ray
            3. Film/screen
            4. Solutions to problems
          C. Artifacts
            1. Common artifacts
            2. Causes and corrections
        III. Imaging Modalities
            A. Direct-exposure film
            B. Screen-film
            C. Xeroradiography
          IV. Technical Considerations
              A. Technique
              B. Compression
              C. Routine positions
            V. Special Situations
                A. Augmented breast
                B. Age factors
                C. Male mammography
                D. Specimens
                E. Special problems
              VI. Needle Localizations
                  A. Benign tumors
                  B. Malignant tumors
                  C. Microcalcifications
                VIII. Risk Versus Benefit Issues
                    A. Breast cancer statistics
                    B. Risk factor studies
                    C. Early detection benefits
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