VVZ API is not affiliated with ETH Zurich. Data might be outdated or incorrect. Please view the official ETHZ Vorlesungsverzeichnis for binding information.

227-0385-10L 6 Credits BSC , MSC , NDS D-HEST , D-MAVT , D-PHYS , D-ITET
You're viewing possible stale or outdated data. Please check the latest semester for more up-to-date information.

Biomedical Imaging

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Klaas P. Prüssmann, Prof. Dr. Sebastian Kozerke
VVZ CR 4.0

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:43

Abstract

Introduction to diagnostic medical imaging based on electromagnetic and acoustic fields including X-ray planar and tomographic imaging, radio-tracer based nuclear imaging techniques, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound-based procedures.

Objective

Upon completion of the course students are able to: • Explain the physical and mathematical foundations of diagnostic medical imaging systems • Characterize system performance based on signal-to-noise ratio, contrast-to-noise ratio and transfer function • Design a basic diagnostic imaging system chain including data acquisition and data reconstruction • Identify advantages and limitations of different imaging methods in relation to medical diagnostic applications

Content

• Introduction (intro, overview, history) • Signal theory and processing (foundations, transforms, filtering, signal-to-noise ratio) • X-rays (production, tissue interaction, contrast, modular transfer function) • X-rays (resolution, detection, digital subtraction angiography, Radon transform) • X-rays (filtered back-projection, spiral computed tomography, image quality, dose) • Nuclear imaging (radioactive tracer, collimation, point spread function, SPECT/PET) • Nuclear imaging (detection principles, image reconstruction, kinetic modelling) • Magnetic Resonance (magnetic moment, spin transitions, excitation, relaxation, detection) • Magnetic Resonance (plane wave encoding, Fourier reconstruction, pulse sequences) • Magnetic Resonance (contrast mechanisms, gradient- and spin-echo, applications) • Ultrasound (mechanical wave generation, propagation in tissue, reflection, transmission) • Ultrasound (spatial and temporal resolution, phased arrays) • Ultrasound (Doppler shift, implementations, applications) • Summary, example exam questions

Resources

Lecture Notes

Lecture notes and handouts

Literature

Webb A, Smith N.B. Introduction to Medical Imaging: Physics, Engineering and Clinical Applications; Cambridge University Press 2011

General Information

Language
English
Levels
BSC , MSC , NDS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 120 minutes
Aids
2-page formulary
Submitted exercise results are graded. A maximum bonus of 0.25 can be achieved and is added to the exam grade if a minimum of 9 exercises has successfully been accomplished.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Biomedical Imaging
**together with University of Zurich**
  • Mon 14:15-16:00 (HG E 19)
  • Tue 13:15-16:00 (CAB G 61)
5 h weekly

Offered In