Radiological Images of the Abdomen and Pelvis

Abstract

Abstract This interactive tutorial serves as an introduction to normal X-rays and cross sections of the abdomen and pelvis for preclinical students enrolled in medical and dental human structure. The course work was digitized and converted into an electronic format to provide beginners with introductory imaging critical to the interpretation of standard X-rays, computerized tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Its objective is to stimulate active self-directed learning by integrating introductory radiographic anatomy into a structured format that is readily accessible for local and distance learning. Active learning was achieved by creating six radiology tutorial units that target content areas dealing with standard and cross-sectional radiographic anatomy and arterial angiography. The tutorial complements didactic and practical (dissection) activities of beginner health care professionals enrolled in human structure. Both in 2007 and 2008, learners scored at the 77th percentile on the gross anatomy subject examination. These scores are significantly higher than those recorded prior to implementation of this instructional content in the curriculum beginning in 2001. Exposing preclinical students to introductory X-rays and cross sections of the abdomen and pelvis provided the learners with a glimpse into the comprehensive evaluation of more contemporary imaging techniques such as CT, MRI, and positron emission tomography (PET) scans. These qualitative observations are supported by recent improvements in learner performance on National Board of Medical Examiners subject shelf exams.

Keywords

• Pelvis
• Radiography
• X-Rays
• Abdomen
• Cross-Sections
• Contrast