- Start with standard textbooks: Although there are many online resources such as articles, case collections and e-books, it is important to start with standard textbooks. The abundance of online materials can be overwhelming and lead to aimless browsing without promoting deep learning. These resources are valuable but should only be utilized after you have established a solid foundation through traditional textbooks.
- Give preference to physical books: Reading physical books can improve retention compared to e-books on tablets or iPads. For basic knowledge, it is recommended to use physical books. However, reference books on digital devices are handy for quick reference, especially while working. For core concepts, stick with physical books.
- Take notes effectively: Develop a habit of taking notes. One useful method is to incorporate notes from articles into your standard textbooks so that all the relevant information is in one place when you revisit a topic. A notebook or app for notetaking can be useful during conferences or when studying.
Recommended books for beginners in the German medical residency system
As a beginner in the German medical residency system (Weiterbildungssystem), it is important to choose the right resources based on the mode you are starting with, usually X-ray or CT. Here are some recommended books to help you transition into your work.
- Chest-X-Ray Trainer - Röntgen-Thorax-Doagnostik by Lars Kamper: This book provides a solid foundation in X-ray and comprehensively covers the essential concepts.
- CT-Kursbuch - Ein Arbeitsbuch für den Einstieg in die Computertomographie by Matthias Hofer: A must for beginners, this book helps to understand the basic principles and techniques of CT.
- Felson's Principles of Chest Roentgenology - A Programmed Text by Lawrence R. Goodman MD FAAC: An excellent English book on radiography. It is an excellent compact resource with many examples and images to enhance your understanding of chest radiography.
- CT- und MRT-Normalbefunde by Torsten Bert Möller and Emil Reif: This supplementary book is essential for reporting in German. It will help you to develop your own style over time, especially as you gain more experience in this area.
- Röntgennormalbefunde by Torsten Bert Möller: This book follows the same principle as “CT and MRI Normal Findings” (above) but is specifically tailored to X-ray. It serves as an essential reference for reporting in German, especially for X-ray cases, and helps you to develop a consistent style and approach over time.
- Sono Grundkurs - Ein Arbeitsbuch für den Einstieg by Matthias Hofer: This book is an excellent resource for beginners to sonography. It offers clear explanations, practical tips and numerous illustrations that simplify complex concepts.
- MR-Skript.com - Ein Skizzenbuch zur MRT des Bewegungsapparates by Wolfgang Fischer: An ideal resource for beginners to musculoskeletal MRI. This sketchbook provides the material in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format.
Important textbooks in radiology
When you begin your medical residency, it’s important to have a reliable textbook to refer back to regularly, in addition to online sources. Here are some top recommendations that are highly regarded in the field. Choose one that fits your learning preferences and meets your residency requirements.
- Weir & Abrahams’ Imaging Atlas of Human Anatomy by Jonathan D. Spratt, Lonie R. Salkowski, Marios Loukas, Tom Turmezei, Jamie Weir: The best book for radiologic anatomy. It is an indispensable resource for anyone in this field.
- Core Radiology: A Visual Approach to Diagnostic Imaging by Ellen X.; Shi, Junzi; Mandell, Jacob C. Sun: A very popular textbook among radiology residents. It offers a strong visual approach with many images that help clarify complex topics.
- Brant and Helms’ Fundamentals of Diagnostic Radiology by Jeffrey Klein, Emily N. Vinson, William E. Brant, Clyde A. Helms: An in-depth textbook with extended chapters on cardiology and interventional radiology. It is a valuable reference book, even if it is time-consuming to read it entirely.
- Grainger & Allison’s Diagnostic Radiology 2-Volume Set by Andy Adam, Adrian K. Dixon, Cornelia Schaefer-Prokop, Jonathan H Gillard: Grainger’s comprehensive approach complements other important texts well and offers unique insights.
- Wie funktioniert MRI? by Dominik Weishaupt, Victor D. Köchli, Borut Marincek: This introduction is perfect for beginners and provides clear explanations of MRI physics and functionality.
- Osborn’s Brain - Imaging, Pathology, and Anatomy by Anne G. Osborn: Widely regarded as the ultimate textbook for neuroradiology.