David F. Black, M.D.

Location

Contact

SUMMARY

The research interests of David F. Black, M.D., primarily include the rapid application of new imaging technologies to clinical practice. These technologies are used to:

• Reduce the working burden on radiology technologists.
• Simplify and make radiologists' tasks more efficient.
• Increase accuracy when using imaging to generate a diagnosis or preoperative plan.

Focus areas

• Anatomic modeling with 3D printing. Dr. Black produces models based on a patient's own medical imaging. Such patient-specific models improve surgical planning and the patient's understanding of the process. Combining multiple current imaging technologies with emerging tools, such as machine learning, to create these models has opened a new way to practice medicine.
• Functional MRI. Dr. Black studies various ways to use MRI to discover what cannot be seen with a typical anatomical picture. Displaying the regions in the brain that control language, muscle function and vision aids in creating a surgical plan. However, these techniques can be improved with more research.
• Quantitative imaging using AI. As new AI technologies emerge, Dr. Black is carefully applying them to current imaging tools. This research promises improved precision in diagnosis, longitudinal tracking and monitoring of therapeutic response.

Significance to patient care

Dr. Black's research efforts focus on improving the delivery of the best possible patient care. By showing which regions in the brain control specific functions, his work makes it possible for surgical teams to see these anatomical relations in 3D. Many of Dr. Black's projects make gathering needed data more efficient and clearer. These enhancements can help radiologists deliver the best possible care.