Francis Deng, MD
- Director of Medical Student Diagnostic Radiology Electives
- Assistant Professor of Radiology and Radiological Science
Medical Student Elective
Course Director
Course Description
The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science places a strong emphasis on education and mentoring at every level.
The one-month basic medical student clinical elective, the most popular elective in the School of Medicine for the past 10 years, introduces students to imaging both as potential future consultants and future residents.
This elective course provides medical students with a broad introduction to the fundamentals of diagnostic and interventional radiology. The curriculum covers essential radiologic terminology, appropriate use and ordering of imaging studies, safety considerations, and principles of image interpretation.
Students will learn about a variety of imaging modalities including radiography, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, nuclear medicine, and image-guided procedures. Body systems studied include neuroradiology (head, neck, brain, and spine); musculoskeletal radiology (extremities); body imaging (chest, abdomen, and pelvis); and breast imaging. Both adult and pediatric populations are addressed.
Course time includes clinical exposure (25%), self-directed study (25%), and interactive didactic sessions led by radiology faculty and residents in the classroom or computer lab setting (50%). Assignments and assessments include quizzes, a presentation, and a final multiple-choice exam.
Objectives:
- Select the most appropriate imaging modality for common clinical indications.
- Recognize situations in which imaging is not appropriate or will not add value to patient care.
- Compose concise, clinically relevant reasons for imaging requests.
- Perform basic interpretation of imaging studies for common pathologies, utilizing appropriate radiologic and anatomic terminology.
- Describe the role of the radiologist in patient care and collaboration with other clinicians.
- Correlate radiology reports with corresponding images.
Students wishing for a more advanced or subspecialized experience can take the Diagnostic Radiology Advanced Clinical Elective (intended to be the second elective for students applying to diagnostic radiology residency), the Interventional Radiology elective, or a subspecialty elective in Neuroradiology.