The role of the radiologist in coronary angiography.

Radiology chiefs at hospitals with open heart surgery programs were queried to ascertain both current and desired degrees of participation by radiologists in coronary angiography. While current participation is limited, respondents indicated a desire to achieve increased active participation. Opposition of cardiologists and a shortage of trained cardiac radiologists were perceived as principal factors impeding increased participation. Over two thirds of the respondents felt additional cardiac radiology training programs are needed and many indicated that positions were available in their departments for a trained cardiac radiologist.