In the past few months, 10 applications for CoRIPS research have been received, four awards have been made and two are being assessed (both look promising).
The successful ones are:
Andrew England. £1600. Observer variation of abdominal aortic aneurysm measurements on CT datasets.
With the widespread availability of keyhole surgery, CT scanning is often used to measure the aneurysm prior to deciding treatment. There are many reports in the literature which highlight differences in CT measurements between the same and different observers. The maximum aneurysm diameter is used to decide on whether to intervene, so it is possible that measurement variability could have clinically significant implications. With image interpretation currently extending beyond the role of radiologists and vascular surgeons becoming increasingly keen on endovascular planning, the research will examine the affect of experience on the accuracy of vascular CT measurements.
Frederick Murphy. £5552. Evaluating the clinical learning experiences of dyslexic student radiographers.
This study explores the learning experiences of dyslexic student radiographers on clinical placement. Research in other healthcare professions, especially in nursing, has demonstrated some significant barriers and risks that dyslexic students have to overcome during their training. It is important for patient safety and the radiography profession that the issues are explored so that effective support and resources can be introduced.
Suzanne Henwood and David Flinton. £3121. A comparison of factors affecting participation in, and attitudes towards, CPD in the UK and New Zealand: A follow-up study.
In 2004 a study investigating radiographer's attitudes towards CPD in the UK and in New Zealand was undertaken. The new research will repeat the original study and the results compared to determine if radiographers' attitudes towards CPD has altered now that a mandatory policy is in place.
Helen Carter. £2000. Experiences of radiographers advancing into reporting CT colonography.
CT colonography (CTC), an imaging procedure of the large bowel, is increasingly being performed in the USA instead of the barium enema (BAE). Radiographers are widely involved in performing and reporting BAE investigations in the UK. If CTC supersedes BAE, gastrointestinal (GI) radiographer skills will be lost unless an alternative role is identified. There is no set training path in CTC for radiographers to follow and more radiographers are being asked to report on CTC without any specific guidance to follow. This study is identifying current national practice.
In addition, five pump priming awards have been received and are being assessed.
