Is there bias against neurology-trained applicants wanting to pursue endovascular/interventional neuro?

[Doctor_Strange]

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For my surgery rotation, we actually spent 2 weeks with a neurology-trained IR attending. I enjoyed my time with him and his workflow which included outpatient f/u on patients he treated. An interesting mix. It has been difficult, though, to find information out there about endovascular fellowships, but it seems there may have a bias against neurology applicants versus radiology and neurosurg? Is my perception far off? I am considering neurology as my specialty, with a stroke fellowship, and am very interested in the interventional aspect of it as well.

Thanks for any insight

 

[Postictal Raiden]

Every year a dozen of stroke/NCC neurologists match NIR fellowships. It’s very competitive but not out of reach. If you are set on that, you’ll need to plan early. Start research/networking/attending neurovascular conferences from day1 of PGY2.
It’s an extremely rewarding career and I believe the demand will continue to grow.

 

[Thama]

But the answer to your question is yes. Some programs don't even consider neurology applicants, while others prefer NSGY/rads but will consider neurologists. The number of neurology-oriented programs appears to be growing but neurology applicants are still at a substantial disadvantage.

 

[jay-why]

I know this is super late, but wanted to add something. I agree with Thama that it is still an uphill battle for neurologists to secure a spot in NIR/ESN fellowship, but I feel like it is getting better (as one who recently went through an application cycle). Neurology has gained a sufficient traction in the field at this point, and will stay in and expand the field for sure. In securing a fellowship position, one’s own contribution to the field, academic trajectory, and professional network play a central role. Neurologists are at the upstream of the referral base, which would be helpful in the long run IMHO, not to mention that stroke neurology and neurocritical care are valuable for the field of NIR/ESN. Although it has been said many times that NSGY could clean up their messes (which is true), most complications would be managed and monitored in NCCU, which is where many neurologists reside and control. Some neurointensivists also place EVDs, which would be reserved for a very severe complication, though crainiotomy would not be possible from neurology. Besides, stroke remains one of the most active areas of NIR/ESN at this time and arguably the biggest reason for the field to expand.

 

[Neurogeneral]

Still at a disadvantage compared to NSG and rads for sure but neuro residents/fellows are increasingly matching into these fellowships. At my former training program, it was becoming the norm for one resident per year to match into endovascular.