Ultrasound Training in Radiology Residency Programs: A National Survey

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Ultrasound (US) imaging is a vital skill for radiologists.
• Comprehensive US training during radiology residency is essential for maintaining a significant role in this modality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the current curriculum of ultrasound (US) training in radiology residency programs nationwide.
• To assess residents' confidence and competency in performing and interpreting US studies.

Main Methods:

• A nationwide survey with 28 questions was distributed to academic radiology departments and residents in the United States.
• The survey assessed demographic information, training details, clinical competency, and perceived adequacy of US training.
• Statistical analysis included Student t tests and 1-way analyses of variance.

Main Results:

• 45% of residents had a dedicated US rotation; only 26% felt confident performing US exams, though 89% felt adequate interpreting them.
• 45% of residents were comfortable operating US machines.
• Dedicated US rotations, more didactic lectures (>10 hours/year), and case conferences (>5 hours/year) positively impacted resident competency and confidence (P < .05).

Conclusions:

• A significant number of radiology residents lack confidence in performing ultrasound examinations independently.
• Enhanced clinical competency in US is associated with dedicated training rotations and increased hours of didactic and conference-based learning.