Body oncologic imaging subspecialty training a curriculum based on the experience in a tertiary cancer center

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the structure of a dedicated body oncologic imaging fellowship program. To summarize the numbers and types of cross-sectional imaging examinations reported by fellows.

Methods: The curriculum, training methods, and assessment measures utilized in the program were reviewed and described. An educational retrospective analysis was conducted. Data on the number of examinations interpreted by fellows, breakdown of modalities, and examinations by disease management team (DMT) were collected.

Results: A total of 38 fellows completed the fellowship program during the study period. The median number of examinations reported per fellow was 2296 [interquartile range: 2148 - 2534], encompassing all oncology-relevant imaging modalities: CT 721 [646-786], MRI 1158 [1016-1309], ultrasound 256 [209-320] and PET/CT 176 [130-202]. The breakdown of examinations by DMT revealed variations in imaging patterns, with MRIs most frequently interpreted for genitourinary, musculoskeletal, and hepatobiliary cancers, and CTs most commonly for general staging or assessment of nonspecific symptoms.

Conclusion: This descriptive analysis may serve as a foundation for the development of similar fellowship programs and the advancement of body oncologic imaging. The volume and diversity of examinations reported by fellows highlights the comprehensive nature of body oncologic imaging.

Keywords: Fellowship program; Imaging modalities; Medical education; Oncologic imaging; Subspecialty training.