Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center Program

The Neuroradiology Fellowship Program at Wake Forest University School of Medicine is a one-year clinical program designed to provide fellows with a comprehensive exposure to modern diagnostic and therapeutic neuroradiology. This ACGME-accredited fellowship program accepts up to four candidates who have successfully completed an ACGME-accredited residency in Diagnostic Radiology. The program is recognized for its excellent clinical education and supportive, collegial environment.

Utilizing state-of-the-art clinical equipment and offering one-on-one educational experiences, fellows will gain mastery in subspecialty neuroradiology interpretation, pathophysiology, and advanced imaging techniques. An optional second-year neuroradiology fellowship is also available for those who wish to extend their training.

Program Goals

Upon completion of the program, fellows will be equipped to:

• Interpret MRI, CT, vascular imaging, myelograms, and neuroangiography in complex clinical cases.
• Understand the functional neuroanatomy of the brain, spine, and head and neck.
• Comprehend the physical principles underlying advanced neuroimaging modalities.
• Perform procedures such as fluoroscopy-guided lumbar punctures, myelograms, ultrasound-guided biopsies, and spine interventions.
• Design and adapt CT and MR protocols as new techniques emerge.
• Familiarize themselves with current neuroimaging literature and scientific data.
• Engage in research and development of scholarly activities.
• Develop teaching skills to educate fellow physicians on neuroimaging topics.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum emphasizes extensive hands-on training in advanced clinical procedures, with the Neuroradiology Section of the Department of Radiology performing nearly 50,000 exams annually. The fellowship consists of rotations that include:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - three months
• Computed Tomography (CT) - three months
• CT/Procedure - three months
• MRI/CT - two months
• Research or electives - one month

Fellows will benefit from a workload that includes about 33,000 Neuro CT cases and 16,000 Neuro MR cases each year, as well as numerous procedures such as lumbar punctures and cerebral angiography.

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the fellowship, encompassing basic science, clinical research, and educational inquiries. Funding is available for fellows to present their work at national meetings. Current research topics include:

• Machine learning in distinguishing different stages of Alzheimer’s disease
• Evaluating cerebrovascular disease in diabetic patients
• Effects of music on brain networks
• Impact of pesticides on children of migrant farm workers

Mentoring and Support

The program is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion, providing support through initiatives like the Kennedy Hopkins Scholars Mentor Program, which offers personal and professional guidance for underrepresented minorities in medicine.

Application Process

Applications for the Neuroradiology Fellowship are processed through the National Residency Match Program (NRMP), utilizing the universal fellowship application by the Association of Program Directors in Radiology. Key prerequisites for applicants include:

• Completion of an ACGME-accredited residency in Diagnostic Radiology
• Board certification from the American Board of Radiology or equivalent
• The ability to obtain a medical license in North Carolina
• For foreign medical graduates, prior completion of an ACGME-accredited residency is essential

Foreign medical graduates may also obtain sponsorship for J-1 Visas, Employment Authorization Documentation (EAD), or green cards. Completed applications are encouraged to be submitted early to facilitate the interview process, which is generally conducted virtually.

Training Sites

Fellows may rotate through various state-of-the-art facilities across the Wake Forest system, ensuring access to cutting-edge technology and a rich clinical environment.

Supportive Environment

The fellowship offers a competitively structured salary, generous funding for Continuing Medical Education (CME), along with comprehensive health benefits encompassing dental and vision coverage. Additional resources are provided for on-call needs such as rooms and meals.