Should vascular surgeons be trained in endovascular techniques? An observational study

The aim of this study was to determine if there is a satisfactory cover for interventional radiology and whether vascular surgeons have received sufficient training in endovascular techniques.

This was an observational study based on questionnaires sent to radiology and vascular trainers and vascular trainees in England. A total of 50 NHS trusts were chosen randomly to take part in the study and 320 questionnaires were sent out with an overall consultant response rate of 57%.

Of vascular consultants in the study group, 53% have had experience in endovascular procedures. Overall, 87% felt that there were not enough radiologists to fulfil the demand and 64% would like further training in endovascular procedures. In addition, 69% would like to be involved in a vascular rota without the general component. Similarly, 81% of radiologists felt that the demand was not being met, as emergency interventional radiology cover was not available on most nights in 65% of the trusts. Of responders, 72% would not object to training of vascular trainees in interventional work and 43% would be happy to be involved in training. Some 33% would accept a vascular trainee for 1 year.

Integrated fellowship in vascular surgery and interventional radiology has been implemented and tested in a number of centres in the US. This approach could be implemented in some of the larger vascular units in the UK.