Preceptors: Matthew Young, DO
Contact: Evelyn Espinosa, evelyn.espinosa@nyulangone.org
Telephone: 212-263-6737

Prerequisites: None

Description

A general introduction to diagnostic radiology, with a glimpse of our most advanced diagnostic capabilities. This course will focus on the appropriate use of imaging in patient care, imaging modalities all clerkship students should be familiar with, and interpretive skill building. Students will also gain exposure to cutting edge CT and MRI technology found here at NYU and will discover the rapidly evolving application of artificial intelligence in diagnostic radiology. Students will develop a consistent, high-yield approach to imaging exams across subspecialties, incorporating a mixture of independent learning, small group and large group activities.

Objectives of the Elective

Learning objectives include:

• Describe basic physics required to produce images of four primary imaging modalities: x-ray, CT, ultrasound, MRI.
• List benefits and limitations of primary imaging modalities, including cost, availability, and diagnostic sensitivity.
• Understand the importance of radiation dose in the setting of x-ray and CT.
• Identify peer-reviewed resources for guidance about imaging appropriateness and usage of contrast.
• Build basic interpretive skills, including a reproducible search pattern.
• Reinforce knowledge of anatomic structures and spatial relationships as seen on imaging exams.
• Gain mastery of a limited cohort of life-threatening “can’t miss” imaging diagnoses as applied to neuro, cardiothoracic and abdominopelvic imaging.

Key Responsibilities of the Student While on Elective

While on elective, the student will be required to complete independent self-study (imaging-based learning modules, screencast didactic lectures) in preparation for small-group, team-based review of curated imaging exams. All imaging exams assigned daily to students will correspond to key teaching points from the recent self-study. Students will be responsible for reviewing all assigned imaging exams in their assigned groups, answering all embedded questions, in preparation for a subsequent large-group ‘read out session’ when salient imaging findings, key teaching points, and distinguishing imaging features will be discussed with teaching faculty.

Didactic Program

Learning material will be delivered in the form of Aquifer Radiology modules (currently used in Radiology Selective), pre-recorded didactic lectures, and numerous supplemental learning materials from vetted sources (such as professional society learning resources, formal practice-based guidelines, and curated evidence-based literature). All learning materials will be freely and easily available on Brightspace.

A content rubric may look like this:

• General imaging principles: imaging modalities, imaging appropriateness and safety, cutting edge technologies and artificial intelligence: 15%
• Cardiothoracic Imaging: 15%
• Abdominal Imaging: 15%
• Neuroimaging: 15%
• Oncology Imaging: 15%
• Pediatric Imaging: 10%
• Musculoskeletal Imaging: 10%
• Breast Imaging: 5%

Method of Evaluation

Pass/Fail. Pass requires the following: completion of all assigned learning modules and screencasts in preparation for group activities; participation in small group sessions (team-based imaging case reviews); participation in large group ‘read-out sessions’.

Scheduling Information

Months Offered: Mar, May, August, October
Report To: Matthew Young, DO
Students Per Period: 20
Duration: Two Weeks