Developing a Search Pattern

Search patterns are crucial skills for radiology residents to master during their training. A thorough search pattern ensures that all relevant aspects of an imaging study are examined, enabling the creation of comprehensive and cohesive reports for the medical team. This chapter outlines suggested search patterns for various abdominal imaging modalities. Each modality requires a unique search pattern, which can be organized by regional anatomy or a systems-based approach. The chapter includes descriptions of normal anatomy and highlights key pathologies for each modality. This framework aims to assist radiology residents, particularly in tackling complex cases. By following these guidelines, residents can enhance their search pattern efficiency, improving patient care and diagnostic confidence.