Raising level of awareness and knowledge of Interventional Radiology among medical students in Pakistan: Need of the hour.

Abstract

In the setting of relentless development in worldwide healthcare, the role of radiology is constantly changing.

Interventional radiology (IR) has transformed the core of radiology from being a solely diagnostic entity a therapeutic specialty as well. The introduction of IR has changed therapeutic procedures, to become less invasive and more immaculate with decrease in the number and extent of post-operative complications, shortened hospital stay, cost as well as markedly decreased mortality and morbidity.^1,2

IR has established strong roots in the developed nations but in Pakistan this field is in its developing stage. Vital to its growth, Interventional radiology requires a sustainable supply of large number of radiologists who are dedicated to the training and practice of IR.  Therefore, medical students, the forthcoming professionals need to be aware of this emerging medical field. But unfortunately radiology teaching and particularly IR is highly underrepresented in medical undergraduate core curricula. Moreover, referrals from clinicians who acknowledge the need for IR specialists are also very crucial.³