Fellowships
- University of Washington Program, Neuroradiology (2022)
- University of Washington Program, Nuclear Medicine (2025)
- University of Washington Program, Pediatric Radiology (2024)
- University of Washington Program, Diagnostic (2023)
Languages
English, TurkishDepartment
Radiology-NeuroradiologyProfessional Titles
- Assistant Professor, Radiology-Diagnostics
Research Interests
• Imaging biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, with emphasis on Alzheimer’s disease, mild cognitive impairment, and related dementias • Amyloid PET, FDG PET brain imaging, and their integration with structural and quantitative MRI • Quantitative imaging, automated analysis, and AI-assisted decision support systems • Advanced MRI techniques including vessel wall imaging, perfusion, diffusion, and volumetric analysis • Cerebrovascular imaging research, particularly intracranial vasculopathies and inflammatory arteriopathies • Correlation of imaging findings with clinical outcomes, cognitive performance, and disease progression • Development of standardized, reproducible imaging protocols to improve diagnostic accuracy and research reproducibilityPublications
- Aksakal M, Chang D, Kharaji M, Watt C, Levitt MR, Hippe DS, Zhu C, Mossa-Basha M. Predicting Vasospasm and Delayed Cerebral Ischemia in Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Role of Vessel Wall MRI. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol. 2025 Sep 29. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 41022562
- Aksakal M, Liu Y, Chen DL, King G, Iravani A. Gallbladder Neuroendocrine Tumor and 177Lu DOTATATE: High Somatostatin Receptor Expression Without Clinical Response. Clin Nucl Med. 2025 Jun 4. [Epub ahead of print] PubMed PMID: 40472258
Practice Locations
UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital (UCH)12605 E. 16th Ave
Aurora, CO 80045
720-848-0000
Hospital Affiliation
- University of Colorado Hospital
- UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital
Specialty Information
Specialties- Radiology, Board Certification
- American Board of Radiology, Board Certification (2025)
Clinical Interests
• Advanced MRI techniques: diffusion, perfusion, spectroscopy, vessel wall imaging • Neurodegenerative disease imaging (Alzheimer’s disease, MCI, Parkinsonian syndromes) • Cerebrovascular disorders: ischemia, vasculitis, RCVS, aneurysms, and dissection • Neuro-oncology: primary and metastatic tumors, treatment response assessment • Head and neck neuroradiology • Molecular and functional imaging integration with MRI • Imaging biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring
Care Philosophy
I practice evidence-based, precise, and clinically integrated neuroradiology. My priority is to deliver clear, actionable interpretations that directly impact patient management. I emphasize diagnostic accuracy, advanced imaging techniques, and close communication with referring providers to ensure timely and optimal care. Every study is approached with the mindset that it represents a real clinical decision point, not just an image set.
• Advanced MRI techniques: diffusion, perfusion, spectroscopy, vessel wall imaging • Neurodegenerative disease imaging (Alzheimer’s disease, MCI, Parkinsonian syndromes) • Cerebrovascular disorders: ischemia, vasculitis, RCVS, aneurysms, and dissection • Neuro-oncology: primary and metastatic tumors, treatment response assessment • Head and neck neuroradiology • Molecular and functional imaging integration with MRI • Imaging biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy monitoring
Care Philosophy
I practice evidence-based, precise, and clinically integrated neuroradiology. My priority is to deliver clear, actionable interpretations that directly impact patient management. I emphasize diagnostic accuracy, advanced imaging techniques, and close communication with referring providers to ensure timely and optimal care. Every study is approached with the mindset that it represents a real clinical decision point, not just an image set.
Personal Interests
Outside of clinical and academic work, I value a disciplined and balanced lifestyle. I am interested in health optimization, nutrition, and physical fitness, with a focus on sustainable habits. I enjoy reading and continuous learning, particularly in science, medicine, and personal development. I also value time spent with family and meaningful social connections. Travel, cultural exploration, and nature-based activities are important to me, as they provide perspective and mental clarity.
Outside of clinical and academic work, I value a disciplined and balanced lifestyle. I am interested in health optimization, nutrition, and physical fitness, with a focus on sustainable habits. I enjoy reading and continuous learning, particularly in science, medicine, and personal development. I also value time spent with family and meaningful social connections. Travel, cultural exploration, and nature-based activities are important to me, as they provide perspective and mental clarity.