Abdominal radiology involvement in image-guided procedures: a perspective from the society of abdominal radiology Cross-Sectional Interventional Radiology Emerging Technology Commission.

Abdominal radiology as a field has historically played an important role in the training, research, and performance of image-guided procedures. With the emphasis on increased subspecialization and the more formal and rigorous interventional radiology training programs, the question of the future of image-guided procedures within abdominal radiology is explored. A survey conducted by the Cross-Sectional Interventional Radiology Emerging Technology Commission on members of the Society of Abdominal Radiology showed that image-guided procedures are overwhelmingly being performed by abdominal radiology groups, and the vast majority of programs are training their fellows in this regard. We explore some of the challenges radiology and health care in general may face should abdominal radiologists no longer perform procedures and outline strategies departments can employ to meet the needs of both abdominal and interventional radiologists.