Body Imaging: Computed Tomography

Many of the goals and objectives apply to all body imaging CT rotations and are listed immediately below. Those goals that are more specific to a particular rotation are listed separately.

Rotation 1 and 2

Knowledge Based Objectives:

1. The resident will know Axial CT anatomy to include:
   1. Normal abdominal anatomy
   2. Normal chest anatomy
   3. Normal pelvic anatomy
2. The resident will know diagnostic criteria for CT diagnosis of renal stones, ureteral stones, appendicitis, diverticulitis, aortic aneurysm, pulmonary embolism and liver metastases.
3. The resident will know Axial CT Anatomy of the normal neck and normal groin.
4. The resident will know diagnostic criteria used for neoplasm of lung, liver, pancreas, nodal system, as well as traumatic injuries to liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys when evaluating with CT.
5. The resident will be able to diagnose ascites, pleural effusion and cul de sac fluid as well as mesenteric involvement with a tumor.
6. Accurately dictate all studies in a timely fashion
7. Communicate effectively and courteously with referring clinicians
   1. Including obtaining relevant history for study interpretation
   2. Regarding important findings on studies performed
8. Demonstrate learning of the clinical indications for ordering and using radiological examinations including advanced CT imaging
9. Demonstrate responsible work ethic.
   This would include being present at the CT station at 8 A.M, and throughout the work day, completion of dictation of all reviewed studies in a timely manner, attendance at all departmental teaching conferences, and grand rounds presentations.
10. Facilitate the learning of medical students, peers, other professionals participating in the CT service including technologists and fellows.
11. Build confidence in reading routine and STAT CT studies.
12. Review American College of Radiology(ACR) Appropriateness Criteria and Standards regarding CT (including the Communications Standard.)
13. Follow up results of surgery or examinations performed by other clinical services to determine final diagnosis.

Decision Making and Value Judgment Skills:

1. Review the request and all applicable clinical history and previous laboratory tests and previous imaging studies to be certain that the proper test has been ordered and that the patient’s condition is such that the examination is safe and that any necessary reparation for the test has been completed before starting the examination. If the indication for the examination is unclear contact the referring physician or another of the patient's appropriate and knowledgeable health care providers.
2. Perform all examinations in the appropriate way. If you have a question, ask before performing the examination.

Technical Skills:

1. After appropriate instruction, demonstrate proficiency in the operation of the intravenous contrast power injector.

Rotation 3 and 4

Knowledge Based Objectives:

1. The resident will know axial CT anatomy of the normal pediatric neck, chest abdomen and pelvis.
2. The resident will know axial CT anatomy of male and female genital system.
3. The resident will be able to diagnose intussusception, cystic hygroma, psoas abscess.
4. Demonstrate continued learning from the knowledge based curricula for crossectional imaging in the Gastrointestinal, Genitourinary and Thoracic sections.
5. Learn advanced analysis for trauma and malignancy diagnosis by CT with definitive correlation with MR, US, plain film and nuclear medicine review of such cases.

Elective

1. If time permits, learn beginnings of 3D CT protocols.

Decision Making and Judgment Skills:

1. Facilitate the learning of medical students, peers, other professionals participating in the CT service including technologists and fellows.
2. Build confidence in reading routine and STAT CT studies.
3. Review ACR Appropriateness Criteria and Standards regarding CT (including the Communications Standard.)

Follow up results of surgery or examinations performed by other clinical services to determine final diagnosis.