C-Arm Gantries, Flat-Panel Detectors and Image Chains

CCL 105 meticulously examines the essential elements of modern C-arm systems. The curriculum delves into the mechanical intricacies of single and bi-plane gantries, detailing their construction, movement mechanisms, and counterbalance systems. We explore the principles of X-ray tube operation and generator control, alongside the physics and technology of digital flat-panel detectors responsible for image acquisition. Emphasis is placed on understanding the complete image chain, from radiation source to display, including image processing fundamentals. Crucially, the course covers collision protection systems and the integration of motorized patient tables, equipping technicians with the knowledge to safely operate, troubleshoot, and perform preventative maintenance on these complex medical imaging devices, ensuring their reliability and patient safety.

InstructorJacob Calhoun

Prerequisites

CCL 101

Course outline

Lectures, virtual labs, and graded assignments — completed in your browser.

01Lesson 1: Introduction to C-Arm Systems and Fluoroscopy Principleslecture

02Lesson 2: Single-Plane Gantry Mechanics and Movement Systemslecture

03Lesson 3: Bi-Plane Gantry Architectures and Independent Motionlecture

04Hands-on Lab: Gantry Movement and Mechanical Inspectionlab

05Lesson 5: X-ray Tube Technology and Operationlecture

06Lesson 6: High-Voltage Generators and Exposure Controllecture

07Lesson 7: Digital Flat-Panel Detector Physics and Designlecture

08Hands-on Lab: Detector Performance and Image Chain Analysislab

09Lesson 9: Image Acquisition, Processing, and Archiving Fundamentalslecture

10Lesson 10: Patient Tables and Integrated Motion Controllecture

11Hands-on Lab: Collision Protection System Testing and Adjustmentlab

12Lesson 12: Radiation Safety and Dose Management in Fluoroscopylecture

13Lesson 13: System Calibration and Quality Assurance Procedureslecture

14Capstone Service Project: Comprehensive C-Arm System Evaluation and Repair Documentationassignment

Syllabus

["Week 1: Lesson 1: Introduction to C-Arm Systems and Fluoroscopy Principles","Week 2: Lesson 2: Single-Plane Gantry Mechanics and Movement Systems","Week 3: Lesson 3: Bi-Plane Gantry Architectures and Independent Motion","Week 4: Hands-on Lab: Gantry Movement and Mechanical Inspection","Week 5: Lesson 5: X-ray Tube Technology and Operation","Week 6: Lesson 6: High-Voltage Generators and Exposure Control","Week 7: Lesson 7: Digital Flat-Panel Detector Physics and Design","Week 8: Hands-on Lab: Detector Performance and Image Chain Analysis","Week 9: Lesson 9: Image Acquisition, Processing, and Archiving Fundamentals","Week 10: Lesson 10: Patient Tables and Integrated Motion Control","Week 11: Hands-on Lab: Collision Protection System Testing and Adjustment","Week 12: Lesson 12: Radiation Safety and Dose Management in Fluoroscopy","Week 13: Lesson 13: System Calibration and Quality Assurance Procedures","Week 14: Capstone Service Project: Comprehensive C-Arm System Evaluation and Repair Documentation"]