Knowledge, Awareness, and Interest of Medical Students toward Interventional Radiology: A Systematic Review
Fawaz K. Alfahmi, Turki A. Alotaibi, Doaa A. Turkistani, Rewa L. Alsharif, Najwa S. Jurays, Abdulrahman A. Aqeel, Abdulaziz T. Altowairqi, Bader Abou Shaar, Nawaf A. Althobaiti, Haya Almosained, Saud S. Alasmari, Azzam KhankanAbstract
Interventional radiology (IR) is a subspecialty of radiology that utilizes imaging technology to perform minimally invasive procedures. These techniques often serve as alternatives to surgery, offering reduced risks, shorter recovery, and improved patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess medical students’ knowledge, awareness, and interest in IR worldwide. A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Cochrane CENTRAL. Data on study design, inclusion criteria, and outcomes were extracted, and the risk of bias was evaluated using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Twenty-five studies met the inclusion criteria: 24 cross-sectional and one cohort study, encompassing 8,855 participants. Among them, 2734 were preclinical, and 3552 were clinical students. Findings showed poor IR knowledge in preclinical years, with only 25% demonstrating adequate understanding. Awareness ranged from 22% to 81.9% among preclinical students and 32% to 81.2% among clinical students. Interest in pursuing IR as a career was higher in clinical years; however, limited exposure and gaps in sustained interest were consistent. Overall, medical students display limited IR knowledge despite considerable interest. Enhanced exposure, formal teaching, and integration of IR into curricula are necessary to bridge this gap and better prepare future physicians. Level of Evidence: Level 1, Systematic Review.