A National Survey of Interventional Radiology Trainees

Interventional Radiology (IR) is a rapidly evolving specialty with increasing global demand. While surveys of UK and international trainees report high satisfaction, gaps in training exposure, research support, and gender diversity persist. No national data exists for IR training in Ireland. This survey evaluates trainee satisfaction, identifies training deficiencies, and explores improvement strategies.

A 13-item electronic survey was distributed to radiology trainees in the Republic of Ireland, assessing demographics, IR exposure, involvement in clinical services, preparedness for fellowships, and views on a diagnostic/interventional radiology (DR/IR) split. Free-text questions explored departmental strengths, areas for improvement, and contributors to gender imbalance.

Thirty-one trainees responded (68% male, 21/31), with a response rate of 22%. 71% (22/31) intended to incorporate IR in future practice. Overall, 48% (15/31) were satisfied with IR training, 36% (11/31) dissatisfied, and 16% (5/31) neutral. Rostering for IR training varied with only 23% (7/31) having a fixed IR day weekly. 16/31 (52%) did not support a DR/IR split, and 55% (17/31) felt prepared for fellowships abroad. Key areas for improvement included enhancing trainee autonomy, teaching, vascular and oncology case exposure, and infrastructure. Lifestyle concerns, radiation exposure, and lack of female mentors were identified as drivers of gender imbalance.

While IR training satisfaction in Ireland is moderate, several actionable improvements have been identified to optimise training nationwide.