Dr. Réiltín Hayden

First author, “Ergonomics in the interventional suite; what the IR needs to know regarding the risk of work related musculoskeletal disorders.”

Why did you choose CIRSE to submit your educational abstract?

Hayden: I chose CIRSE’s annual scientific meeting as it is the world’s most comprehensive congress for IR education and knowledge exchange. It is the world’s best attended IR conference, welcoming delegates from all around the globe, guaranteeing the widest possible dissemination of the scholarly output of our department (University Hospital Waterford, IE). All accepted abstracts are published in the abstract book, and in turn, CVIR, further promoting one’s work. The opportunity to attend a cutting-edge IR conference in an attractive European city in September is too good to miss!

Are there any special considerations to take into account when submitting this type of abstract?

It has been my experience that educational abstracts should focus on a specific topic, most fruitfully on a commonly encountered condition or frequently performed procedure, especially if new evidence has emerged either supporting or refuting previous approaches. A well prepared and illustrated exhibit on even ‘simple’ procedures has educational value for medical students or young IRs, and occasionally even more experienced IRs as, quoting André Gide, “It doesn’t matter that it has already been said, no one was listening!” Exhibits on topics that are rarely encountered have educational value, particularly when the often scant evidence is collated and synopsised.

How did you find the submission process?

The submission process was not only smooth but also extremely user friendly. CIRSE’s website provides a well-structured outline of the submission process with crystal-clear submission guidelines.  The entire process was seamless.

Do you have any tips for physicians considering submitting an abstract?

The abstract is a first impression, so make it appealing. My advice would be to be as focused, clear and succinct as possible, encouraging the abstract reviewers to anticipate that you would produce an equally clear exhibit with maximal educational value in 12 slides.

Will you submit an abstract for CIRSE 2023 as well?

Absolutely! I would not pass up the opportunity to attend CIRSE 2023 with delegates from all over the world, combining educational and cultural experiences in Copenhagen in early September!