Radiology

James B. Spies, M.D, Chair

The objectives of the Department of Radiology are to present the fundamentals of diagnostic radiology, imaging, and interventional techniques. As the scope of this field is broad, this is best accomplished by an integrated instruction program with other basic science and clinical disciplines. Throughout the medical school curricula, radiological aspects of normal structures and disease processes are demonstrated to large and small groups. For instance, formal lectures and small group discussions are given for first-year students during their courses in anatomy. A lecture series is provided for the second-year students during Clinical Problem Solving. An elective preceptorship available for first-year students on a weekly basis exposes students to the reading room and special studies for two or three hours, and a 16-hour elective course in general principles of radiology is offered to second-year students. Group teaching and special interdisciplinary conferences are held daily at Georgetown. Finally, students at affiliated hospitals attend weekly sessions in film interpretation given by attending radiologists.

Two, four or six-week elective courses in general diagnostic radiology or a subspecialty of radiology are offered to fourth-year students, and include abdominal imaging, cardiac radiology, pediatric radiology, pulmonary radiology, and skeletal and emergency radiology. These courses thoroughly acquaint students with technical and clinical aspects of radiology.

In the fall, the department offers research projects in diagnostic imaging electives to first, second, and third-year medical students interested in clinical and basic science. By offering this program, the department assists medical students in developing their own research interests into ongoing studies. This program focuses on those students choosing an academic career.