Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-04-17DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.007
Sakina Divan , Hebatullah M. Elsingergy , Arif Musa , Mohamed M. Elsingergy , Brigitte Berryhill , Gulcin Altinok
Diagnostic Radiology has emerged as an increasingly competitive specialty posing a significant challenge for aspirants, particularly for Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). This could be attributed to the field’s dynamic nature, flexibility of career paths, and high job demand. This article delves into a decade's worth of matching trends in diagnostic radiology, underscoring the unique obstacles faced by DOs and IMGs including possible implicit biases, logistical hurdles, and the implications of the USMLE Step 1′s transition to pass/fail scoring. It offers practical solutions to level the playing field, such as expanding clinical and research opportunities for applicants, encouraging residency programs to address implicit biases, increasing curriculum adaptability in osteopathic and foreign medical schools, and exploring accreditation reforms. Together, these recommendations aim to create a more equitable selection process and mitigate the systemic barriers DOs and IMGs face in securing highly sought-after radiology residency spots.
{"title":"A breakdown of how diagnostic radiology residency became increasingly competitive for US doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) and international medical graduates (IMGs)","authors":"Sakina Divan , Hebatullah M. Elsingergy , Arif Musa , Mohamed M. Elsingergy , Brigitte Berryhill , Gulcin Altinok","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.007","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.007","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Diagnostic Radiology has emerged as an increasingly competitive specialty posing a significant challenge for aspirants, particularly for Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) and International Medical Graduates (IMGs). This could be attributed to the field’s dynamic nature, flexibility of career paths, and high job demand. This article delves into a decade's worth of matching trends in diagnostic radiology, underscoring the unique obstacles faced by DOs and IMGs including possible implicit biases, logistical hurdles, and the implications of the USMLE Step 1′s transition to pass/fail scoring. It offers practical solutions to level the playing field, such as expanding clinical and research opportunities for applicants, encouraging residency programs to address implicit biases, increasing curriculum adaptability in osteopathic and foreign medical schools, and exploring accreditation reforms. Together, these recommendations aim to create a more equitable selection process and mitigate the systemic barriers DOs and IMGs face in securing highly sought-after radiology residency spots.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 1-4"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144014892","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-04-18DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.003
Sawyer D. Miller BS , Thomas M Pender MD , Jake Lallo JD , Jonathan Lazarow JD , Frances Lazarow MD
Objective
Diagnostic radiology is regarded as a “high-risk” specialty in the medical malpractice literature. This study examines the causes and patterns and types of medical malpractice litigation and outcomes in radiology in the United States, with a particular focus on diagnostic radiology errors involving the abdomen and pelvis.
Methods
Malpractice suits in which the defendant was a radiologist in the United States from 2008 to 2018 were identified using LexisAdvance, a national legal database. 2775 cases were initially identified, and 1165 cases fit the inclusion criteria.
Results
Diagnostic error was the most prevalent error type, (n = 925, 82.9 %), followed by procedural errors (n = 106, 9.5 %), communication errors (66 cases, 5.9 %), and mixed/other errors (n = 19, 1.7 %). Breast was the most common imaging modality implicated in medical error (n = 211, 26.4 % of total cases), followed by CT (n = 186, 23.3 %), and XR (n = 146, 18.3 %). Out-of-court settlement was the most common outcome (n = 402, 44.5 %), followed by a verdict ruled in favor of the defendant (n = 246, 27.2 %) and case dismissal (n = 131, 14.5 %). The average award in a settlement was $1,500,690 USD (range: $25,000- $10,200,000 USD). The average award in a jury verdict for the plaintiff was $2,857,203 USD (range: $60,000- $31,490,000 USD), and the average award in arbitration for the plaintiff was $1,354,497 USD (range: $200,000- $2,800,000 USD). The gastrointestinal (GI) system and the genitourinary (GU) system accounted for 51.9 % and 25.9 % of errors in the abdomen and pelvis, respectively.
Discussion
Diagnostic error was the most prevalent source of error leading to malpractice litigation. Breast imaging was the most frequently implicated imaging modality in litigations, followed closely by CT and XR. A majority of cases were resolved through out-of-court settlement or with judgments in favor of the defendant radiologists. However, in cases with trial judgments in favor of the plaintiff, average financial awards were higher than out-of-court settlements. Abdomen and pelvic involvement accounted for frequent sources of error.
{"title":"Malpractice litigation in diagnostic radiology with special focus on cases in the abdomen and pelvis: A comprehensive analysis from a national legal database","authors":"Sawyer D. Miller BS , Thomas M Pender MD , Jake Lallo JD , Jonathan Lazarow JD , Frances Lazarow MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.003","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Diagnostic radiology is regarded as a “high-risk” specialty in the medical malpractice literature. This study examines the causes and patterns and types of medical malpractice litigation and outcomes in radiology in the United States, with a particular focus on diagnostic radiology errors involving the abdomen and pelvis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Malpractice suits in which the defendant was a radiologist in the United States from 2008 to 2018 were identified using LexisAdvance, a national legal database. 2775 cases were initially identified, and 1165 cases fit the inclusion criteria.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Diagnostic error was the most prevalent error type, (<em>n</em> = 925, 82.9 %), followed by procedural errors (<em>n</em> = 106, 9.5 %), communication errors (66 cases, 5.9 %), and mixed/other errors (<em>n</em> = 19, 1.7 %). Breast was the most common imaging modality implicated in medical error (<em>n</em> = 211, 26.4 % of total cases), followed by CT (<em>n</em> = 186, 23.3 %), and XR (<em>n</em> = 146, 18.3 %). Out-of-court settlement was the most common outcome (<em>n</em> = 402, 44.5 %), followed by a verdict ruled in favor of the defendant (<em>n</em> = 246, 27.2 %) and case dismissal (<em>n</em> = 131, 14.5 %). The average award in a settlement was $1,500,690 USD (range: $25,000- $10,200,000 USD). The average award in a jury verdict for the plaintiff was $2,857,203 USD (range: $60,000- $31,490,000 USD), and the average award in arbitration for the plaintiff was $1,354,497 USD (range: $200,000- $2,800,000 USD). The gastrointestinal (GI) system and the genitourinary (GU) system accounted for 51.9 % and 25.9 % of errors in the abdomen and pelvis, respectively.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Diagnostic error was the most prevalent source of error leading to malpractice litigation. Breast imaging was the most frequently implicated imaging modality in litigations, followed closely by CT and XR. A majority of cases were resolved through out-of-court settlement or with judgments in favor of the defendant radiologists. However, in cases with trial judgments in favor of the plaintiff, average financial awards were higher than out-of-court settlements. Abdomen and pelvic involvement accounted for frequent sources of error.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 90-94"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144045712","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-08-11DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.010
Jeffrey Girardot MD , Anthony Higinbotham MD , Kamand Khalaj MD, MPH , Ameya Nayate MD , Inas Mohamed MD , Michael Wien MD , Navid Faraji MD
Objective
The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a "no-pull" policy in radiology residency programs, which prevents residents from being pulled from their scheduled rotations to cover other services. The hypothesis was that such a policy reduces the uneven distribution of training across subspecialties, ensuring that residents receive a more comprehensive education.
Methods
Resident schedules from two years prior to the implementation of the no-pull policy were compared with those from two years after the policy was enacted. Any instance where a resident was reassigned from their scheduled rotation to cover a different subspecialty due to staffing needs was recorded as a "pull." The number of pull days was calculated and compared across both periods. A total of 40 residents' schedules were analyzed for both pre- and post-policy periods.
Results
Two- and one-year pre-policy, the number of total pulls was substantial at 369 and 372 pull days, respectively. One- and two-years post-policy, the number of pull days dramatically decreased to 76 and 89 pull days, respectively. This equates to an average of 82.5 total pull days per year, or just 2 pull days per resident annually—a 78% reduction.
Discussion
The implementation of a no-pull policy in radiology residency programs significantly decreased the number of days residents were reassigned to cover under-staffed specialties. This change contributed to a more consistent and well-rounded training experience, ensuring residents gained valuable time in all subspecialty rotations without being diverted to cover others.
{"title":"Effects of the implementation of a no-pull policy on radiology resident staffing","authors":"Jeffrey Girardot MD , Anthony Higinbotham MD , Kamand Khalaj MD, MPH , Ameya Nayate MD , Inas Mohamed MD , Michael Wien MD , Navid Faraji MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.010","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.010","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of a \"no-pull\" policy in radiology residency programs, which prevents residents from being pulled from their scheduled rotations to cover other services. The hypothesis was that such a policy reduces the uneven distribution of training across subspecialties, ensuring that residents receive a more comprehensive education.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Resident schedules from two years prior to the implementation of the no-pull policy were compared with those from two years after the policy was enacted. Any instance where a resident was reassigned from their scheduled rotation to cover a different subspecialty due to staffing needs was recorded as a \"pull.\" The number of pull days was calculated and compared across both periods. A total of 40 residents' schedules were analyzed for both pre- and post-policy periods.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Two- and one-year pre-policy, the number of total pulls was substantial at 369 and 372 pull days, respectively. One- and two-years post-policy, the number of pull days dramatically decreased to 76 and 89 pull days, respectively. This equates to an average of 82.5 total pull days per year, or just 2 pull days per resident annually—a 78% reduction.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>The implementation of a no-pull policy in radiology residency programs significantly decreased the number of days residents were reassigned to cover under-staffed specialties. This change contributed to a more consistent and well-rounded training experience, ensuring residents gained valuable time in all subspecialty rotations without being diverted to cover others.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 42-47"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144884601","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-09-19DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.09.004
S. Sooraj Dr , Ritu Misra Dr , Neha Bagri Dr , Aanchal Bhayana Dr , Bindu Bajaj Dr
Purpose
To correlate placental ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) values with perinatal outcomes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM).
Methods
The study included 160 pregnant women, comprising 80 GDM and 80 healthy controls. Ultrasound SWE was performed on the placenta, and mean SWE and velocity values were derived from six measurements. Both the cases and controls were followed to record Apgar scores and NICU admission. Statistical analysis was done, and the SWE values were compared to correlate these values with perinatal outcomes.
Results
A positive correlation was observed between SWE values and maternal fasting blood glucose (FBS) levels (rho = 0.32, p = 0.001), indicating that higher glucose levels are associated with increased placental stiffness. In the control group, the mean SWE was 2.48 kPa, while in the GDM group, it increased to 7.74 kPa, reflecting the impact of a diabetic environment on placental stiffness. The mean velocity was also higher in the GDM group (1.47 m/s) as compared to the control group (mean = 0.87 m/s). A moderate negative correlation between APGAR (1-min) and mean SWE was found at <32 weeks of gestation (rho = -0.48, p = 0.017). No significant correlation was found with NICU admissions.
Conclusion
Placental stiffness differs significantly between GDM and controls, with higher values in GDM. Ultrasound SWE can substantially contribute to the management of GDM and improve the outcomes. A negative correlation between SWE and 1-minute APGAR score at <32 weeks of gestation is associated with a lower score, indicating the effect of increased placental stiffness on perinatal outcomes.
目的:探讨妊娠期糖尿病(GDM)患者胎盘超声剪切波弹性成像(SWE)值与围产儿预后的相关性。方法:研究对象为160例孕妇,其中GDM患者80例,健康对照80例。超声对胎盘进行SWE,平均SWE和速度值由六次测量得出。对病例和对照组进行随访,记录Apgar评分和新生儿重症监护病房入住情况。进行统计分析,并比较SWE值与围产期结局的相关性。结果:SWE值与母体空腹血糖(FBS)水平呈正相关(rho = 0.32, p = 0.001),表明较高的血糖水平与胎盘硬度增加有关。在对照组中,平均SWE为2.48 kPa,而在GDM组中,SWE增加到7.74 kPa,反映了糖尿病环境对胎盘僵硬的影响。GDM组的平均速度(1.47 m/s)也高于对照组(平均0.87 m/s)。APGAR(1分钟)与平均SWE呈中度负相关。结论:GDM组胎盘硬度与对照组差异显著,GDM组更高。超声SWE对GDM的治疗和预后有很大的帮助。SWE与1分钟APGAR评分呈负相关
{"title":"Correlation of placental ultrasound elastography with perinatal outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus","authors":"S. Sooraj Dr , Ritu Misra Dr , Neha Bagri Dr , Aanchal Bhayana Dr , Bindu Bajaj Dr","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.09.004","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.09.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To correlate placental ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) values with perinatal outcomes in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The study included 160 pregnant women, comprising 80 GDM and 80 healthy controls. Ultrasound SWE was performed on the placenta, and mean SWE and velocity values were derived from six measurements. Both the cases and controls were followed to record Apgar scores and NICU admission. Statistical analysis was done, and the SWE values were compared to correlate these values with perinatal outcomes.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A positive correlation was observed between SWE values and maternal fasting blood glucose (FBS) levels (rho = 0.32, p = 0.001), indicating that higher glucose levels are associated with increased placental stiffness. In the control group, the mean SWE was 2.48 kPa, while in the GDM group, it increased to 7.74 kPa, reflecting the impact of a diabetic environment on placental stiffness. The mean velocity was also higher in the GDM group (1.47 m/s) as compared to the control group (mean = 0.87 m/s). A moderate negative correlation between APGAR (1-min) and mean SWE was found at <32 weeks of gestation (rho = -0.48, p = 0.017). No significant correlation was found with NICU admissions.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Placental stiffness differs significantly between GDM and controls, with higher values in GDM. Ultrasound SWE can substantially contribute to the management of GDM and improve the outcomes. A negative correlation between SWE and 1-minute APGAR score at <32 weeks of gestation is associated with a lower score, indicating the effect of increased placental stiffness on perinatal outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 130-136"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145182405","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To determine whether low-energy (LE) images acquired during contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) are diagnostically and technically comparable to full-field digital mammography (FFDM) using standardised image quality and lesion conspicuity metrics.
Materials and Methods
In this retrospective study, 268 women (mean age: 44.6 years) who underwent both FFDM and CEM imaging, were included. Three blinded radiologists independently assessed the FFDM and LE-CEM images using 20-point EUREF (European Reference Organisation for Quality Assured Breast Screening and Diagnostic Services) criteria and 5-point Likert scale for image quality, lesion conspicuity, margin clarity, and diagnostic adequacy. An analysis of the additional lesion detection rate was done. Additionally, technical metrics including posterior nipple line (PNL), compressed breast thickness (CBT), and average glandular dose (AGD) were also recorded. Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon signed-rank, McNemar’s test, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Fleiss’ kappa.
Results
LE images scored significantly higher than FFDM in 11 of 20 EUREF parameters (p < 0.05) and were non-inferior in the remaining. Median Likert scores were significantly higher for LE images across all lesion parameters, including conspicuity against background (5 vs. 4), margin clarity (5 vs. 4), and overall lesion visibility (5 vs. 4) (all p < 0.001). LE images detected significantly more lesions per patient (0.557 vs. 0.314; p < 0.001) with excellent inter-reader agreement (κ > 0.80). PNL and CBT showed near-perfect positional reproducibility (ICC > 0.98), and all AGD values remained within EUREF safety limits.
Conclusion
LE-CEM images match or rather exceed FFDM in image quality, lesion detection, and diagnostic adequacy, while maintaining technical reproducibility. These findings support omitting additional FFDM exposure in patients with indications for CEM, thereby reducing radiation dose and streamlining the workflow.
{"title":"Multiparametric comparison of low-energy contrast-enhanced mammography and full-field digital mammography for image quality and lesion conspicuity using EUREF standards and Likert scoring","authors":"Veenu Singla MD, Dollphy Garg MD, T. Pallavi MD, N.P. Bhavith MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.001","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To determine whether low-energy (LE) images acquired during contrast-enhanced mammography (CEM) are diagnostically and technically comparable to full-field digital mammography (FFDM) using standardised image quality and lesion conspicuity metrics.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>In this retrospective study, 268 women (mean age: 44.6 years) who underwent both FFDM and CEM imaging, were included. Three blinded radiologists independently assessed the FFDM and LE-CEM images using 20-point EUREF (European Reference Organisation for Quality Assured Breast Screening and Diagnostic Services) criteria and 5-point Likert scale for image quality, lesion conspicuity, margin clarity, and diagnostic adequacy. An analysis of the additional lesion detection rate was done. Additionally, technical metrics including posterior nipple line (PNL), compressed breast thickness (CBT), and average glandular dose (AGD) were also recorded. Statistical analysis included Wilcoxon signed-rank, McNemar’s test, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), and Fleiss’ kappa.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>LE images scored significantly higher than FFDM in 11 of 20 EUREF parameters (<em>p</em> < 0.05) and were non-inferior in the remaining. Median Likert scores were significantly higher for LE images across all lesion parameters, including conspicuity against background (5 vs. 4), margin clarity (5 vs. 4), and overall lesion visibility (5 vs. 4) (all <em>p</em> < 0.001). LE images detected significantly more lesions per patient (0.557 vs. 0.314; <em>p</em> < 0.001) with excellent inter-reader agreement (κ > 0.80). PNL and CBT showed near-perfect positional reproducibility (ICC > 0.98), and all AGD values remained within EUREF safety limits.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>LE-CEM images match or rather exceed FFDM in image quality, lesion detection, and diagnostic adequacy, while maintaining technical reproducibility. These findings support omitting additional FFDM exposure in patients with indications for CEM, thereby reducing radiation dose and streamlining the workflow.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 75-84"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144884602","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-08-11DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.004
Mehrshad Bakhshi M.D. , Marie-Xinyi Sun DEC , Charles-Antoine Boucher B.H.Sc. , Tharshanna Nadarajah PhD , Ralph Nelson M.D. , Karl Muchantef M.D. , Josephine Pressacco M.D.
Rationale and Objectives
Radiology plays a critical role in healthcare but is marked by stark global inequities. Low- and middle-income countries have far fewer imaging resources and trained personnel compared to high-income countries. As global health interest grows among trainees, understanding Canadian radiology residents’ perspectives on global health imaging (GHI) is essential. This study aimed to assess their prior experiences, perceived barriers, and recommendations for integrating GHI into residency training.
Materials and Methods
A bilingual, anonymous survey was developed and distributed to residents across all 16 Canadian radiology residency programs from May 2024 to April 2025. The questionnaire included items on demographics, prior global health involvement, interest in GHI, perceived preparedness, institutional opportunities, and barriers to international engagement. Respondents were also asked to identify preferred approaches for integrating GHI into training programs.
Results
Fifty-one trainees responded from 14 different programs. 64.7% reported prior work in developing countries, with 54.9% perceiving an unmet need for medical imaging in those settings. Nearly half (47.1%) expressed plans to engage in GHI. On-site collaboration and education of local staff (47.1%) and residents (49%) were the most preferred methods of contribution. However, 78.4% felt unprepared or unsure to get involved in GHI. 45.1% reported no GHI opportunities in their current program. Major barriers included call coverage (94.1%), lack of funding (90.2%), and limited infrastructure (90.2%). The top proposed solutions were international electives (86.3%), teleradiology (60.8%), and case presentations focused on diseases highly prevalent in developing countries (51%).
Conclusion
Canadian radiology trainees show strong interest in global health imaging but face systemic barriers. Curricular integration of electives, teleradiology, and global health education, along with improved access to funding, could bridge the gap between interest and participation.
{"title":"Resident perspectives on global health imaging in canadian radiology training: A national survey","authors":"Mehrshad Bakhshi M.D. , Marie-Xinyi Sun DEC , Charles-Antoine Boucher B.H.Sc. , Tharshanna Nadarajah PhD , Ralph Nelson M.D. , Karl Muchantef M.D. , Josephine Pressacco M.D.","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.004","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Rationale and Objectives</h3><div>Radiology plays a critical role in healthcare but is marked by stark global inequities. Low- and middle-income countries have far fewer imaging resources and trained personnel compared to high-income countries. As global health interest grows among trainees, understanding Canadian radiology residents’ perspectives on global health imaging (GHI) is essential. This study aimed to assess their prior experiences, perceived barriers, and recommendations for integrating GHI into residency training.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>A bilingual, anonymous survey was developed and distributed to residents across all 16 Canadian radiology residency programs from May 2024 to April 2025. The questionnaire included items on demographics, prior global health involvement, interest in GHI, perceived preparedness, institutional opportunities, and barriers to international engagement. Respondents were also asked to identify preferred approaches for integrating GHI into training programs.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Fifty-one trainees responded from 14 different programs. 64.7% reported prior work in developing countries, with 54.9% perceiving an unmet need for medical imaging in those settings. Nearly half (47.1%) expressed plans to engage in GHI. On-site collaboration and education of local staff (47.1%) and residents (49%) were the most preferred methods of contribution. However, 78.4% felt unprepared or unsure to get involved in GHI<strong>.</strong> 45.1% reported no GHI opportunities in their current program. Major barriers included call coverage (94.1%), lack of funding (90.2%), and limited infrastructure (90.2%). The top proposed solutions were international electives (86.3%), teleradiology (60.8%), and case presentations focused on diseases highly prevalent in developing countries (51%).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Canadian radiology trainees show strong interest in global health imaging but face systemic barriers. Curricular integration of electives, teleradiology, and global health education, along with improved access to funding, could bridge the gap between interest and participation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 37-41"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144850085","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-01-31DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.01.014
Isabella E. Amador MS , Abheek G. Raviprasad MD , Kevin Pierre MD , Nicholas Rodriguez-Zingg , Kerolus Anis , Roberta M. Slater MD , Christopher L. Sistrom MD, PhD , Ivan Davis MD , Anthony A. Mancuso MD , Dhanashree Rajderkar MD
Purpose
To evaluate radiology resident performance in diagnosing four non-traumatic musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies that have historically yielded low scores on the Wisdom in Diagnostic Imaging Emergent/Critical Care Radiology Simulation (WIDI SIM).
Materials and Methods
This multi-institutional, retrospective study analyzed WIDI SIM data collected from 2015 to 2021. A total of 351 radiology residents (R1–R4) interpreted 65 de-identified imaging cases, four of which focused on septic arthritis/osteomyelitis of the shoulder, septic arthritis/osteomyelitis of the hip, acetabular neoplasm, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Each case was scored using a standardized 10-point rubric (0–2 = critical error, 3–6 = problematic omissions, 7–10 = effective report). Scores were further categorized into observational (missed findings) and interpretive (incorrect conclusion despite correct identification) errors. The Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's multiple comparisons was used to assess performance differences across postgraduate years.
Results
Among these four MSK pathologies, only hip osteomyelitis demonstrated a statistically significant difference across training levels (p = 0.0063), although no specific pairwise comparisons were significant. Average scores remained relatively low across all cases, with observational errors surpassing interpretive errors in frequency.
Conclusion
Radiology residents struggled to accurately diagnose non-traumatic MSK pathologies in a simulated on-call setting, predominantly due to missed imaging findings. Implementation of enhanced training strategies, such as targeted case review, high-yield simulations, and systematic visual search protocols, may improve MSK diagnostic competency and reduce the risk of clinically significant oversights.
{"title":"Radiology resident competency in diagnosing non-traumatic musculoskeletal conditions: A simulation-based assessment using WIDI SIM","authors":"Isabella E. Amador MS , Abheek G. Raviprasad MD , Kevin Pierre MD , Nicholas Rodriguez-Zingg , Kerolus Anis , Roberta M. Slater MD , Christopher L. Sistrom MD, PhD , Ivan Davis MD , Anthony A. Mancuso MD , Dhanashree Rajderkar MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.01.014","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.01.014","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To evaluate radiology resident performance in diagnosing four non-traumatic musculoskeletal (MSK) pathologies that have historically yielded low scores on the Wisdom in Diagnostic Imaging Emergent/Critical Care Radiology Simulation (WIDI SIM).</div></div><div><h3>Materials and Methods</h3><div>This multi-institutional, retrospective study analyzed WIDI SIM data collected from 2015 to 2021. A total of 351 radiology residents (R1–R4) interpreted 65 de-identified imaging cases, four of which focused on septic arthritis/osteomyelitis of the shoulder, septic arthritis/osteomyelitis of the hip, acetabular neoplasm, and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. Each case was scored using a standardized 10-point rubric (0–2 = critical error, 3–6 = problematic omissions, 7–10 = effective report). Scores were further categorized into observational (missed findings) and interpretive (incorrect conclusion despite correct identification) errors. The Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's multiple comparisons was used to assess performance differences across postgraduate years.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among these four MSK pathologies, only hip osteomyelitis demonstrated a statistically significant difference across training levels (<em>p</em> = 0.0063), although no specific pairwise comparisons were significant. Average scores remained relatively low across all cases, with observational errors surpassing interpretive errors in frequency.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Radiology residents struggled to accurately diagnose non-traumatic MSK pathologies in a simulated on-call setting, predominantly due to missed imaging findings. Implementation of enhanced training strategies, such as targeted case review, high-yield simulations, and systematic visual search protocols, may improve MSK diagnostic competency and reduce the risk of clinically significant oversights.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 111-117"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143191543","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Radiological diagnosis of adrenal lesions can be challenging due to the overlap between benign and malignant imaging features. The primary challenge in managing adrenal lesions is to accurately identify and characterize them to minimize unnecessary diagnostic examinations and interventions. However, there are substantial risks of underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of typical, atypical, and overlapping imaging features of both common and rare adrenal lesions and explores emerging applications of artificial intelligence powered analysis of CT and MRI, which could play a pivotal role in distinguishing benign from malignant and functioning from non-functioning adrenal lesions with significant diagnostic accuracy, thereby enhancing diagnostic confidence and potentially reducing unnecessary interventions.
{"title":"Beyond the norm: Exploring the diverse facets of adrenal lesions","authors":"Sadaf Afif BS , Zoya Mahmood BS , Atif Zaheer MD , Javad R. Azadi MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.015","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.08.015","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Radiological diagnosis of adrenal lesions can be challenging due to the overlap between benign and malignant imaging features. The primary challenge in managing adrenal lesions is to accurately identify and characterize them to minimize unnecessary diagnostic examinations and interventions. However, there are substantial risks of underdiagnosis and misdiagnosis. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of typical, atypical, and overlapping imaging features of both common and rare adrenal lesions and explores emerging applications of artificial intelligence powered analysis of CT and MRI, which could play a pivotal role in distinguishing benign from malignant and functioning from non-functioning adrenal lesions with significant diagnostic accuracy, thereby enhancing diagnostic confidence and potentially reducing unnecessary interventions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 137-147"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144983534","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-06-04DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.06.008
Rebecca Driessen MD, Sadhna Nandwana MD, Farid Hajibonabi MD, Courtney Moreno MD, Amir Davarpanah MD, Patricia Balthazar MD
Purpose
To evaluate the prevalence of malignancy history documentation in CT abdomen or abdomen/pelvis (CT AP) order requisitions and inclusion in final radiology reports, when not included in the order requisition. Influence of exam type, radiologist subspecialty, and patient characteristics on documentation rates was evaluated.
Methods
This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a large academic healthcare system. All patients with a malignancy history who underwent CT AP from 1/1/23-1/31/23 were identified. Data were reviewed for malignancy documentation in both radiology order requisition and final reports, using multivariable logistic regression to assess documentation rates by patient setting and control for exam, radiologist, and patient covariates.
Results
Among 1,858 CT APs, 51% included malignancy history in the order requisition, and 71.3% in the final report. Documentation was more likely in the order requisition in outpatient vs. emergency department (ED) settings (OR 10.5; p<0.001) and inpatient vs. ED (OR 1.51; p=0.050), younger patients (OR 0.98 per year; p<0.001), and those of non-Black race (Other race OR 2.06 and White OR 1.36, respectively; p<0.001 and p=0.011). Documentation in final radiology reports, when initially omitted in the order requisition, was more likely during business hours (OR 1.41; p=0.039), outpatient and inpatient settings (ORs 1.90 and 1.70, respectively; p-value 0.013 and p-value 0.019), with younger patients (OR 0.99; p=0.009), and less likely in White patients compared to Black (OR 0.50; p<0.001).
Conclusion
Malignancy history is frequently omitted in initial CT AP order requisitions but is often added by radiologists in final reports, correlated with the imaging timing, setting, and patient demographics.
{"title":"Completeness and accuracy of malignancy history in abdominal CT order requisitions and final radiology reports","authors":"Rebecca Driessen MD, Sadhna Nandwana MD, Farid Hajibonabi MD, Courtney Moreno MD, Amir Davarpanah MD, Patricia Balthazar MD","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.06.008","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.06.008","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To evaluate the prevalence of malignancy history documentation in CT abdomen or abdomen/pelvis (CT AP) order requisitions and inclusion in final radiology reports, when not included in the order requisition. Influence of exam type, radiologist subspecialty, and patient characteristics on documentation rates was evaluated.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>This retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a large academic healthcare system. All patients with a malignancy history who underwent CT AP from 1/1/23-1/31/23 were identified. Data were reviewed for malignancy documentation in both radiology order requisition and final reports, using multivariable logistic regression to assess documentation rates by patient setting and control for exam, radiologist, and patient covariates.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Among 1,858 CT APs, 51% included malignancy history in the order requisition, and 71.3% in the final report. Documentation was more likely in the order requisition in outpatient vs. emergency department (ED) settings (OR 10.5; p<0.001) and inpatient vs. ED (OR 1.51; p=0.050), younger patients (OR 0.98 per year; p<0.001), and those of non-Black race (Other race OR 2.06 and White OR 1.36, respectively; p<0.001 and p=0.011). Documentation in final radiology reports, when initially omitted in the order requisition, was more likely during business hours (OR 1.41; p=0.039), outpatient and inpatient settings (ORs 1.90 and 1.70, respectively; p-value 0.013 and p-value 0.019), with younger patients (OR 0.99; p=0.009), and less likely in White patients compared to Black (OR 0.50; p<0.001).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Malignancy history is frequently omitted in initial CT AP order requisitions but is often added by radiologists in final reports, correlated with the imaging timing, setting, and patient demographics.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 25-30"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144295520","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-01-01Epub Date: 2025-04-18DOI: 10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.004
Scotty McKay M.D., Arif Musa M.D., Hassan Shaban M.Sc, B.iAS, Ali Harb M.D., Mohammed Twam M.D., Alhassan Alhasson M.D., Hassan Alfanharwi M.D., Jacob Turner M.D., Jared Huggins D.O., Gulcin Altinok M.D.
Introduction
Diagnostic radiology residents often face challenges transitioning from medical school and internship to radiology residency. To address this, senior residents in our program developed a Welcoming Committee (WC) to initiate early communication with matched applicants and support incoming radiology residents as they transition.
Methods
A resident-led WC was developed by senior residents to support newly matched applicants. Matched applicants were added to a messaging platform for senior residents to communicate important program updates and answer questions. During the first week of residency, WC members organized workshops to discuss topics that may benefit incoming residents. An anonymous electronic survey was sent to first-year residents, who received WC interventions, and senior residents, who transitioned to radiology residency before the establishment of the WC. Responses were scored using a Likert scale to quantify the level of agreement or disagreement. Standard statistical methods and Mann–Whitney analysis were used to compare the responses between groups.
Results
First-year residents felt they understood expectations for their rotations, felt more comfortable asking questions, felt their questions were more adequately answered, and were more enthusiastic about starting rotations than senior residents, differences that were statistically significant.
Conclusions
The establishment of a resident-led WC to communicate with and advise matched applicants prior to first-year rotations appeared to improve perceptions of firstyear radiology residents regarding preparation, communication, enthusiasm, rotation experiences, and comfort in asking questions. These findings underscore the potential of resident-led interventions to improve the quality of the orientation and onboarding process for first-year radiology residents.
{"title":"A welcoming change: Quality improvement project to improve new radiology residents’ early experiences","authors":"Scotty McKay M.D., Arif Musa M.D., Hassan Shaban M.Sc, B.iAS, Ali Harb M.D., Mohammed Twam M.D., Alhassan Alhasson M.D., Hassan Alfanharwi M.D., Jacob Turner M.D., Jared Huggins D.O., Gulcin Altinok M.D.","doi":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.004","DOIUrl":"10.1067/j.cpradiol.2025.04.004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Diagnostic radiology residents often face challenges transitioning from medical school and internship to radiology residency. To address this, senior residents in our program developed a Welcoming Committee (WC) to initiate early communication with matched applicants and support incoming radiology residents as they transition.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A resident-led WC was developed by senior residents to support newly matched applicants. Matched applicants were added to a messaging platform for senior residents to communicate important program updates and answer questions. During the first week of residency, WC members organized workshops to discuss topics that may benefit incoming residents. An anonymous electronic survey was sent to first-year residents, who received WC interventions, and senior residents, who transitioned to radiology residency before the establishment of the WC. Responses were scored using a Likert scale to quantify the level of agreement or disagreement. Standard statistical methods and Mann–Whitney analysis were used to compare the responses between groups.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>First-year residents felt they understood expectations for their rotations, felt more comfortable asking questions, felt their questions were more adequately answered, and were more enthusiastic about starting rotations than senior residents, differences that were statistically significant.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The establishment of a resident-led WC to communicate with and advise matched applicants prior to first-year rotations appeared to improve perceptions of firstyear radiology residents regarding preparation, communication, enthusiasm, rotation experiences, and comfort in asking questions. These findings underscore the potential of resident-led interventions to improve the quality of the orientation and onboarding process for first-year radiology residents.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":51617,"journal":{"name":"Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology","volume":"55 1","pages":"Pages 5-9"},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2026-01-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144047009","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}