Technologies

Visit us to see how the Department of Radiation Sciences prepares the profession's future leaders.

VCU's program provides unique offerings and experiences in each of its programs.

Radiography PatientThe VCU Radiography Program is equipped with the latest technology in x-ray imaging. 

Radiography students will use the Siemens Luminos Agile Max to become proficient in x-ray equipment manipulation and positioning.  This system combines Digital Direct Radiography and Digital Fluoroscopy with the latest software features to prepare students for a career in Radiologic Technology.   Due to the units' ability to produce radiographs, live fluoroscopy, digital subtraction angiography and multiple post-processing functions, this system is used at top hospitals across the country. 

 RadSci students scanning a wrist

Radiation Therapy Simulation / Treatment Planning Labs

presentation of body scansWe are excited to have a Virtual Environment in Radiation Therapy (VERT) as the centerpiece of our laboratory instruction. This unit allows students to:

  • Practice in a safe, non-pressured environment
  • Visualize 3D structures, dose, CT and beams
  • Use “real world” linear accelerator controls
  • Practice CBCT matching and electron beam setups
  • Enhance decision-making skills
  • View 3D internal and cross-sectional anatomy principles

Treatment Planning

We are excited to have dedicated treatment planning stations in our laboratory space. These Varian Eclipse workstations allow students to:

  • Improve their knowledge of anatomy with contouring challenges
  • Create treatment plans
  • Evaluate/compare treatment plans
  • Transfer “their” treatment plan into VERT system for review

Picture of student working on VERT system

Radsci professor showing students how to use a machineThe education of nuclear medicine technology students is enhanced by laboratory experiences using the Siemens Symbia Evo Excel dual-head gamma camera system. This gamma camera allows students to simulate nuclear medicine procedures in a safe, constructive environment.  Additionally, the department has multiple computer workstations with sophisticated software for student use in processing nuclear medicine images and performing quantitative analysis from raw image data obtained from actual patients. Nuclear medicine students also enjoy the opportunity to work in a fully equipped radiopharmacy, complete with a radiopharmaceutical compounding station under a laminar flow hood.  In this “hot lab,” students gain experience with the syringes, needles, radiopharmaceuticals, and safety equipment necessary to produce vital, yet safe, nuclear medicine procedures.

laminar hood

Radiation Sciences student using ultrasoundDMS students apply concepts and strategies learned in their coursework to enhance their ultrasound clinical and lab experiences. The use of state-of-the-art Philips machines, Trophon unit, and a variety of phantoms are utilized to mimic the clinical environment. Our neonatal head, pediatric hip, male and female reproductive phantoms allow students to develop skills necessary to complete ultrasound examinations that may not be available for practice through student or volunteer models. Our ultrasound laboratory is equipped with large wall monitors that allows for comfortable observation of the student scanning for both the instructor and fellow classmates.