From Imaging to Impact: My Journey Through Interventional Radiology
Authored by Alexander Eskandarian, B.S., third-year medical student at Wayne State University
Walking into the interventional radiology (IR) suite on my first day, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The room was filled with high-tech monitors and machines, and the team moved around with such confidence and ease that it was clear they had a rhythm. But what stood out to me right away was how welcoming everyone was. The attendings, residents, nurses, and techs all made me feel like part of the team from the start.
One of the first cases I observed really stuck with me. Mel, the PA, was about to perform a routine procedure, but the way she approached the patient made all the difference. She sat down, explained everything in detail, and kept checking in to make sure the patient felt comfortable. Afterward, the patient told us,
“I only want her to do my procedures. She’s so nice and caring and makes sure I’m comfortable throughout the whole process.”
That moment showed me how important it is to bring empathy and kindness to every interaction, no matter how routine it might seem.
As the rotation continued, I saw this same patient-centered approach reflected in the entire team. One case with Hussein, our chief resident, and Hailey, an R2, really stood out. We were consulted about a patient’s chest tube that wasn’t draining as much air as before. At first, it seemed like a straightforward decision to revise the tube, but instead of jumping into the procedure, Hussein and Hailey took the time to look at the imaging and consider the clinical picture. They realized the chest tube was in the right position and working as expected, and therefore did not need to be replaced emergently. They discussed the risks and benefits with the referring team, explaining why replacing the tube wasn’t necessary. This decision not only saved the patient from an unnecessary procedure but also gave them more time to focus on healing. Watching Hussein and Hailey advocate for the patient and prioritize their comfort was a reminder that the best decisions in medicine are always the ones that put the patient first.
One of my favorite parts of the rotation was how much I was able to learn. The residents encouraged me to present topics almost every day, which pushed me to study and think critically about the field. They also taught me how to systematically review scans, a skill that’s already been so helpful in other rotations. I feel more confident understanding anatomy and pathology now, and I know this will be a huge advantage as I continue my training.
My time in IR wasn’t just a great learning experience, it was eye-opening. Seeing how the team combined advanced technology with thoughtful, compassionate care really solidified my interest in radiology. This rotation showed me how much impact imaging and interventions can have on patients’ lives, and it confirmed that radiology is the specialty where I see myself thriving and making a difference.
To the Interventional Radiology and Diagnostic Radiology departments: thank you for your kindness, your teaching, and your inspiration. You made this rotation unforgettable, and I’m so grateful for everything I learned from all of you.