Transitioning from interventional radiology: ideas for the inevitable

Interventional Radiology (IR) is a highly rewarding specialty, both for its salutary effects for patients, as will as the satisfaction it provides for the operating radiologists. Nonetheless, arduous work and long hours have led to numerous reports of burnout amongst interventional radiologists (IRs). Six long-term academic radiologists in leadership positions briefly chronicle their becoming IRs, their type of transitioning from IR, and the pros and cons of those respective transitions. The specific transitions include reduced time in IR, switching to diagnostic radiology, becoming involved in medical school education, ceasing IR leadership, and retirement. Pros and cons of the various transition strategies are highlighted. As the taxing work and long hours are so ubiquitous for IRs, and as burnout is so common, transitioning from IR is highly likely eventually for IRs. The varied transition experiences highlighted in this report hopefully will be helpful for current and aspiring IRs.