Position Paper of the German Society for Interventional Radiology and Minimally Invasive Therapy (DeGIR) and the German Roentgen Society (DRG) on Structural and Professional Requirements in Interventional Oncology

Abstract

Background

Interventional oncology (IO) employs various techniques to enable minimally invasive, image-guided treatment of tumor diseases with both curative and palliative goals. Additionally, it significantly contributes to managing tumor-related and perioperative complications, offering diverse supportive procedures for patients at all stages of their diseases. The execution of IO procedures places unique demands on the equipment, personnel, and structural organization of radiological clinics, necessitating specific expertise from interventional radiologists.

Methods

This position paper aims to comprehensively outline the multifaceted aspects of IO and discuss the requisite criteria for hospitals, radiological clinics, and interventional radiologists (IRs). Furthermore, it underscores overarching considerations of quality assurance that clinics and professional societies should prioritize.

Conclusion

The requirements for hospitals, radiological clinics, and IRs are varied and demand not only a high level of proficiency in performing IO procedures but also in-depth knowledge of the differential therapy for various tumor diseases. This expertise is essential for effectively serving as clinical partners in the interdisciplinary treatment of oncologic patients. Additionally, a thorough understanding and safe handling of ionizing radiation technologies, along with proficiency in radiation protection methods, which are fundamental aspects of radiological specialist training, is crucial for ensuring the safety of IO procedures for both patients and staff. The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Interventionelle Radiologie und minimal-invasive Therapie (DeGIR) and the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE) have long-established dedicated quality management programs, accrediting radiology clinics and certifying IRs. These initiatives aim to uphold the highest standards of care and meet the quality expectations set by politics in healthcare system, particularly in the realm of interventional radiology.

Key Points

• The various procedures in the field of interventional oncology (IO) are complex medical interventions that require not only the most advanced technical equipment but also adequate human resources, particularly specialized expertise in interventional radiology, diagnostic imaging, oncology, and radiation protection.

• This expertise is an integral part of the specialized medical training in radiology and is certified by professional societies such as the German Society for Interventional Radiology (DeGIR) and the Cardiovascular and Interventional Radiological Society of Europe (CIRSE).

• Professional societies like DeGIR, CIRSE, and the American Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) establish the necessary quality assurance framework for comprehensive, high-quality IO therapy through quality assurance (QA) registries, standard operating procedure (SOP) documents, and participation in guideline development.

• Currently, radiology is the only discipline that provides physicians with the theoretical and practical knowledge, skills, and competencies required to perform the demanding procedures in the field of IO through specialized training programs and tailored certification processes.

Citation Format

• Isfort P, Sommer CM, Bruners P et al. Position Paper of the German Society for Interventional Radiology and Minimally Invasive Therapy (DeGIR) and the German Roentgen Society (DRG) on Structural and Professional Requirements in Interventional Oncology. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2024; DOI 10.1055/a-2373-1013

Publication History

Received: 24 March 2024

Accepted after revision: 28 June 2024

Article published online:
04 November 2024

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