Academic radiology
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The COVID-19 pandemic has forced the transition of the traditional residency interview to a virtual format. This new interview format creates additional challenges and opportunities for both programs and applicants. The specific challenges of the virtual interview format are described, as well as means to mitigate those challenges. In addition, opportunities to improve residency selection from the program end are described.
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Chest CT is not suitable for critically ill patients with COVID-19 and lung ultrasound (LUS) may play an important role for these patients. In this study, we summarized the findings of LUS and explore the value of semiquantitative LUS scores in evaluation and follow-up of COVID-19 pneumonia. ⋯ Our scoring system provides a more quantitative use of LUS findings and accurate evaluation of lung damage for critically ill patients with COVID-19.
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Medical Student Education Roadblock Due to COVID-19: Virtual Radiology Core Clerkship to the Rescue.
Medical schools were upended by the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in suspension of all in-person educational activities, and leaving clinical clerkships on hold indefinitely. A virtual curriculum and novel teaching methods were needed to fulfill curricular requirements. We developed a comprehensive virtual radiology clerkship and evaluated the efficacy of this novel method of teaching. ⋯ A completely virtual radiology core clerkship can be a successful educational experience for medical students during a time when remote learning is required. A small group learning environment is most successful for student engagement. Personal connections between faculty and students can be challenging in a virtual course.
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To evaluate the clinical yield of routine chest radiography in identifying pneumothorax warranting chest tube decompression in patients undergoing ultrasound-guided thoracentesis. ⋯ Following ultrasound-guided thoracentesis, the incidence of pneumothorax requiring chest tube decompression is only 1 in 170. Of the 1 in 30 patients who develop a pneumothorax, only 1 in 6 require a chest tube. This information can inform procedural consent discussions as well as future guidelines about the necessity of routine postprocedural chest radiography.