From Diagnostic to Interventional: Exploring the Evolution of a Radiologic Technologist

Welcome back to another episode of A Couple of Rad Techs Podcast! Today, we have a very special guest joining us, Lake Odom, an experienced interventional radiologic technologist. In this episode, Lake shares their journey into the world of interventional radiology and the fascinating intricacies of their work. From the importance of protective gear and the advancements in technology to the challenges and rewards of being an interventional rad tech, Lake dives deep into their experiences and expertise. Stay tuned as we unravel the mysteries of interventional radiology and gain valuable insights from Lake. Let's dive in!

Lake Odom is an experienced interventional specialist who has been practicing since 2010. During his tech school years, Lake discovered his passion for interventional work and decided to pursue it as a career. Fortunately, he was able to join a two-semester program at a nearby community college, which provided him with hands-on training in interventional and cardiac cath procedures. Unlike many interventional specialists who undergo on-the-job training, Lake was fortunate to have a didactic program accompanying his clinical rotations. Through these rotations, he had the opportunity to work with various doctors and gain insights from different perspectives, enhancing his skills and knowledge in the field. Lake firmly believes that having a diverse background in interventional techniques is crucial for success in this profession.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lakeodom
https://www.irtechtips.com/

[00:02:40] Radiologists unsure about separate interventional groups soon. Interventional is minimally invasive image-guided surgery. Can involve draining, aspirating, or working on arteries.
[00:05:04] Active role in patient care, excitement of interventional, constant learning, new technologies.
[00:07:36] Top three common procedures in interventional radiology?
[00:12:53] New clot aspiration device removes blockage.
[00:14:14] Radiologists are essential and skilled; doctors rely on them.
[00:18:06] Interventional cardiology has higher radiation dose.
[00:20:31] Different shifts and hours in various places.
[00:24:00] Lots of good info about intervention, please share more of your experience in education and training, we need these conversations.

higher dose of radiation, interventional cardiology, radiology, protective lead hats, arm shields, gloves, technology, radiation dose reduction, Phillips machine, newer machine, specialized field, hands-on experience, outpatient job, equipment maintenance, smaller outpatient labs, diagnostic outpatient setting, cleaning tasks, longer cases, clot removal, catheter technique, penumbra device, bypass graft, mantras, misconceptions about radiologists, interventional radiology rotation, job offer, radiologic technologists, interventional procedure, Lake Odom, interventional training, clinical sites, uncertainty among radiologists, minimally invasive surgery

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