Spanish radiology residents' views on breast imaging

To evaluate radiology residents' opinions about breast imaging and the possibility of choosing this subspecialty after completing their residency.

We elaborated a 15-question survey aimed at radiology residents in Spain. The survey was approved by the Spanish Society of Breast Imaging (SEDIM) and the Spanish Society of Medical Radiology (SERAM), and it was disseminated by the SERAM through links to Google Forms via social networks and emails. Responses sent between February 21, 2020 and July 31, 2020 were accepted.

A total of 72 residents responded to the survey (7.83% response rate); 69.44% of these were third- or fourth-year residents. Of the respondents, 73.61% knew about the SEDIM, and 18.06% knew about the European Society of Breast Imaging. The duration of training programs was three months for 70.83% of respondents. In 7.84% of the responses, residents stated that their supervision was less than 50%, and 70.59% of the residents stated that the rotation exceeded their expectations. One-third of the respondents would consider a fellowship in breast imaging. In all hospitals, residents did diagnostic mammography and breast ultrasound; not all did interventional procedures. Aspects of breast imaging that were rated negatively included the lack of CT studies and the possible legal repercussions of errors. Aspects that were rated positively were dynamics, interventionism, and the role of the radiologist in the process of care for patients with breast cancer.

Most residents considered that their rotations in breast imaging exceeded their expectations; however, only a small percentage of residents would consider specializing in the field.