Clinical Experience MSK

The clinical component is designed to build upon the skills learned during the fellow’s previous residency.  The curriculum is designed around specific learning objectives and goals to provide a structured environment.  The fellow will act as primary consultant for referring clinicians and answer questions about MSK studies.   All ordered cross-sectional imaging (CT and MRI scans) will be reviewed and protocoled with the fellow to ensure the imaging study is indicated and protocoled correctly to answer the clinical question.

The fellow will independently review diagnostic studies in all MSK imaging modalities.  These studies will then be reviewed with the fellow at the workstation with the attending MSK radiologist.  During these read-out sessions, all aspects of the exam will be discussed.  For radiography, imaging technique/ patient positioning, imaging views, assessment of image quality, and pathologies are the teaching goals. For ultrasound, the technique of performing the ultrasound to obtain diagnostic images, including patient and probe positioning, will be emphasized in addition to identifying pathologies.  For CT scan, in addition to the aforementioned goals, the fellow will learn about radiation dose and optimizing the exam to minimize patient radiation dose while obtaining diagnostic images.  For MRI scans, the physics of how different sequences are obtained and how to optimize the images for a given indication will be frequently reviewed with the fellow.  To further the learning experience, supplemental material including journal articles, reviews and textbooks are available and will be selected for the fellow to do further reading and research on individual topics.

For interventional procedures, the fellow will review request for the procedure and assist in determining 1) if the procedure is indicated 2) correct modality (fluoroscopy/US/CT) was requested 3) any pre-procedural tests or labs required before performing the procedure.  The procedure will then be performed with the attending radiologist who will supervise all portions of the procedure and teach correct approach and technique to ensure the procedure is performed as safely and effectively as possible.