Research

Clinical research is encouraged, but is not considered a required part of the clinical fellowship. Duke faculty are involved in a wide variety of research efforts, spanning the breadth of modalities and imaging techniques.

Many single projects are available for Fellows interested in undertaking relatively limited projects, while those who wish to do so can become involved in longer-term/more intensive research efforts. In addition, Fellows may choose to either spearhead projects or simply serve as readers/secondary investigators, as they wish.

Fellows who are able to complete projects during the fellowship year in time for a national meeting are encouraged to submit their work. Projects accepted for presentation are often supported by the department. The Division has a laptop computer which fellows are encouraged to use for research projects. Office space for the abdominal imaging fellows is located in Duke North Hospital and is available for use during days scheduled for academic pursuits.

Recently completed Fellow-driven projects include:

  • Reproducibility of MRI perfusion measurements
  • Feraheme®-enhanced MRI for DVT assessment
  • Comparing non-contrast CT and non-contrast MRI for liver lesion assessment
  • Fast Eovist protocols for screening patients with chronic liver disease
  • MRI-based measures of bone marrow perfusion
  • Dual energy CT for iodine quantification
  • Accuracy of fluid collection characterization at CT
  • Effect of contrast warming on extravasation and allergic reaction rates
  • Image-guided wire localization of non-palpable lesions outside the breast
  • Localization of primary colonic tumors at conventional CT
  • 3D vs. 2D T2-weighted techniques for pelvic MRI