Grant Application

Paula Novelli, MD, UPMC Presbyterian 

Proposed Innovation

Interventional radiology plays an essential role in the management of life-threatening and non-urgent medical conditions. Interventional radiologists use images to guide tiny instruments — small needles, narrow tubes, and catheters — inside the body to precisely target treatment with the least invasive techniques possible.

The goal of this project is to enhance training of interventional radiologists through the use of a state-of-the-art simulator housed at the Winter Institute for Simulation, Education, and Research (WISER), part of The Wolff Center at UPMC.

Improvements in Action

Through this innovative project, a Mentice VIST® G5 Simulator will be purchased to provide clinicians and medical professionals with hands-on training in interventional radiology procedures. Modules will provide training scenarios for a variety of conditions, including treatment of uterine fibroids, traumatic vascular injury, and malignant liver tumors. Training will focus on challenging the learner’s technical skills, clinical decision-making abilities, and procedural proficiency.

Intended Outcomes

Having a simulator-based curriculum for teaching interventional radiology procedures will allow trainees to gain experience and confidence in catheter-directed minimally invasive procedures in a safe and controllable learning environment. It is expected to enhance their learning curve while lessening the risk of patient injury due to inexperience.