Interventional Radiology is a thriving practice in the medical profession. Radiologists in this field provide non-invasive procedures using tools that assist in providing non-surgical treatment for many diseases. Though interventional radiology is a demanding field that requires extensive education and certification, the salary outlook for specialized radiologists appears strong.
What is Interventional Radiology?
According to the University of Maryland Medical System, Interventional radiology is considered for a broad range of conditions using catheters or wires, X-ray and imaging techniques used to diagnose and in some cases treat disease. Interventional radiology can be an alternative to surgical treatment for some conditions and can sometimes eliminate the need for hospitalization.
Interventional Radiologist
An interventional radiologist is a physician working closely with other doctors in the health care setting to establish treatment action plans for patients. There are currently about 4,000 interventional radiologists in the United States practicing mainly in academic medical centers or large community hospitals.
Practice
Interventional radiologists provide treatment procedures including catheter utilization procedures like angiographies, angioplasties, foreign body extractions and embolization. In addition, these radiologists perform intravascular ultrasounds that can detect and further diagnose blood vessel problems conducting stent placement to open up blockages within the vessel. Needle biopsies conducted by interventional radiologists can determine presence of disease through needle tissue extraction. Interventional radiologists can also use these methods to delivery medications directly to affected areas, eliminating lengthy surgical procedures for vascular diseases, strokes and cancer.
Education
Interventional radiologist careers require a degree from an accredited medical school. In addition, these radiologists are licensed and required to complete a five-year residency as part of a graduate medical program. Fellowship training is required in performing minimally invasive procedures using imaging. This specialized training is part of an accredited training program certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Interventional radiologists receive additional certification by the American Board of Radiology in Diagnostic Radiology and Vascular Interventional Radiology.
Salary Outlook
A survey completed in 2004 by the American Medical Group Association (AMGA) shows diagnostic radiologists are among the highest-paid specialists in the United States. According to the survey, these radiologists saw compensation increases in 2003 and overall experienced larger percentage and dollar increases than other medical specialties studied. The median compensation as of 2003 is more than $400,000 annually.
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