Exploring Interventional Radiology: A Multicentre Study on Saudi Medical and Radiology Technology Students'...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Radiology
• Interventional Radiology

Background:

• Interventional radiology (IR) is a minimally invasive, image-guided subspecialty of diagnostic radiology.
• Medical schools in Saudi Arabia offer limited exposure to IR, often confined to elective rotations.
• A significant gap exists in students' understanding of IR educational and clinical experiences across different institutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the awareness and knowledge of medical and radiology technology students regarding interventional radiology in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
• To gauge student interest in IR as a future career path.
• To understand student perceptions of their experiences within IR departments and the field's future.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study design was employed.
• Questionnaires were administered to medical and radiology technology students from their second year to internship.
• Data collection occurred between April and May 2023 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Main Results:

• 31.5% of students reported poor knowledge of IR, with 7.8% having no knowledge.
• 45.9% felt their knowledge was adequate, while only 14.7% reported excellent understanding.
• Over one-third of students expressed interest in IR as a career, with radiology technology students showing greater familiarity.

Conclusions:

• Limited exposure significantly impacts students' understanding of interventional radiology.
• Integrating IR courses early into curricula, alongside symposiums and conferences, is vital for enhancing student knowledge.
• Standardizing radiology curricula in Saudi medical schools can improve IR awareness and career development opportunities.