Cardio-vascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Program Description
Training in Cardio-vascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR) takes place in the Stephenson CMR Centre, which is part of the Libin Institute of Alberta. The Stephenson CMR Centre, founded in 2005 and directed by Dr. Matthias Friedrich has evolved quickly into an internationally recognized institution for research and clinical application of CMR. Due to the high acceptance rate among the local cardiologists, it has become one the five largest CMR centers in Northern America. The training program offers fellowships from one month to one year and follows the published guidelines for CMR training as stated by the SCMR (International Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance). This program is under the direction of Dr. Oliver Strohm and has trained short- and long-term fellows from a variety of countries including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Germany and USA. To date, the Stephenson CMR Centre has trained more than 30 fellows.
The CMR Fellow will be provided with an opportunity to learn about indications, contraindications, limitations and the clinical usefulness of CMR studies in patients with cardiac and vascular diseases. The CMR Fellow will work closely with the primary CMR reader to choose the optimal imaging protocol, perform the CMR study and to prepare the report; all cases are reviewed by the staff of the Stephenson CMR Centre on a daily basis, including extensive discussion of CMR methods and diagnostic findings. During a typical month at the Stephenson CMR Centre, the Fellow will participate in over 120 CMR cases, including stress studies, viability assessment studies, flow and valvular studies and congenital heart diseases.
The Stephenson CMR Centre has several formal educational rounds including a weekly journal club, research rounds and case review sessions. Fellows staying for 12 months are expected to actively participate in CMR research after their initial three months of intensive clinical training.
Specific requirements for submitting applications for CMR Fellowships are as follows:
- Current Curriculum Vitae
- Cover letter - stating intention, year(s) interested in applying, number of years, funding availability
- Three letters of recommendation on institutional letterhead
- Proper contact information including email address
Applications should be emailed to cmr.training@ucalgary.ca
Recommendation Letters Should Be Sent To:
Dr. Andrew Howarth
Director, CMR Training Program
Stephenson CMR Centre at Foothills Medical Centre
SSB, Suite 0700; 1403 29th Street NW
Calgary, AB T2N 2T9
Once accepted to the program, a PGME form needs to be filled out and sent to Post Grad Education along with your CV and signed acceptance letter. This is the process in obtaining appropriate Educational license through the Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons.
Educational Activities
The CMR group is also involved in Departmental and Divisional educational activities.
