Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship Program at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center is a one-year, ACGME-accredited training program focused on diagnostic and interventional musculoskeletal radiology. This program offers a comprehensive experience in all facets of musculoskeletal imaging and is ideal for individuals who have completed a residency in Diagnostic Radiology.

The fellowship is designed to cultivate specialized, academically oriented musculoskeletal radiologists equipped with superior clinical skills. Graduates of this program have successfully transitioned into various positions, including both academic and private practice roles. The fellowship presents the unique opportunity to collaborate with various departments such as Orthopedic Surgery, Primary Care Sports Medicine, Podiatry, Rheumatology, and Oncology, enhancing the inter-disciplinary approach to musculoskeletal health issues 1.

Clinical Training Highlights

Fellows receive specialized training that encompasses:

• Musculoskeletal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound (US).
• Diagnostic and therapeutic joint injections and aspirations, including bursal and tendon sheath injections.
• CT- and US-guided biopsies of bone and soft tissue.
• Radiofrequency tumor ablation and spinal interventions through the Interventional Radiology Division, available to interested fellows.

Program Benefits

Upon joining the fellowship, participants benefit from:

• A competitive salary.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Long-term disability support.
• Employee Assistance Programs.

Additional specific benefits outlined on the program application page enhance the overall experience 1.

Curriculum Overview

The fellowship curriculum is structured to include clinical rotations, interdisciplinary conferences, and focused research time. Fellows are assigned to clinical rotations for at least four days each week, which include:

• Case interpretation and supervision of residents.
• Procedure performance in diagnostic imaging.

The program boasts access to advanced technology, including nine fast reconstructing multi-detector CT scanners, seven ultrasound units, and five MR imaging units. Research opportunities include case studies, descriptive studies, and laboratory studies, supported by a team of engineers and physicists engaged in developing state-of-the-art imaging techniques 2.

Research Opportunities

Fellows are encouraged to partake in ongoing advanced research projects, with financial support for pilot research projects available from the department 3.

Conferences and On-Call Responsibilities

Fellows can access various teaching conferences, including Orthopaedic Grand Rounds, and participate in pager calls for emergency procedures without the necessity for in-house overnight calls. Individual schedules may allow for elective time based on needs 3.

Application Process

The application process begins with participation in the Musculoskeletal Imaging Fellowship Match, which outlines required qualifications such as completing an accredited diagnostic radiology residency and being eligible for a medical license in North Carolina. Candidates must submit various documents, which include:

• Common Application Form from the Society of Skeletal Radiology.
• Wake Forest Supplemental Application.
• Personal Statement and Curriculum Vitae.
• USMLE/COMLEX Transcripts.
• 3 Letters of Recommendation, including one from the residency program director.
• Optional Photograph.

Foreign medical graduates are welcomed into the fellowship, and applicants should ideally have had recent U.S. clinical experience. Qualification requires that international candidates complete an ACGME-accredited residency. The program supports J-1 Visas, Employment Authorization Documentation (EAD), and green cards for work authorization 4.