University of Michigan Program

The University of Michigan's Interventional Radiology Integrated Residency Program is a prestigious six-year program designed to equip residents with the necessary skills in both interventional and diagnostic radiology, being ranked consistently among the top in the country. The residency begins in the first year of postgraduate training with a preliminary year in General Surgery, followed by comprehensive radiology training over the subsequent five years.

Program Structure

The Interventional Radiology (IR) residency is an integrated program that encompasses a surgical internship and various clinical rotations. The surgical internship includes specialized rotations and one dedicated to Interventional Radiology, ensuring a solid foundation for further training. The structure is as follows:

• PGY-1: 12 rotations including a Michigan Surgery Internship with 1 SICU and 1 IR rotation.
• PGY-2: 13 rotations that include 10 diagnostic radiology (DR) rotations, 1 IR rotation, and 1 vascular surgery outpatient rotation.
• PGY-3: 13 rotations comprising 10 DR rotations and 1 vascular surgery inpatient rotation.
• PGY-4: 13 rotations with 10 DR rotations and 1 hepatology outpatient rotation.
• PGY-5: 13 rotations featuring 4 DR rotations, 6 IR rotations, and 1 SICU rotation.
• PGY-6: 13 rotations consisting of 12 IR rotations and 1 elective rotation.

Clinical Rotations

The clinical component of the IR residency includes a diverse array of rotations that allow trainees to build a robust skill set. These rotations incorporate both interventional and diagnostic radiology elements and involve direct patient care. Residents are actively involved as primary operators during procedures, conducting inpatient consultations, and participating in outpatient clinics. The program is known for providing one of the highest trainee-to-procedure ratios in the country, enhancing experiential learning opportunities.1

Training Environment

The program operates out of multiple training sites, including the University Hospital, Frankel Cardiovascular Center, C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, and the VA Medical Center in Ann Arbor, performing over 15,000 interventional procedures annually. This environment is instrumental in providing residents with unparalleled hands-on experience in complex cases such as aortic interventions, vascular disease treatment, and interventional oncology, while also fostering a strong foundation in diagnostic imaging.1

Research Opportunities

Residents are encouraged to engage in research throughout their training. The Radiology department at the University of Michigan supports a rich research culture that enables residents to collaborate on various clinical projects, thereby enhancing their academic profile and contributing significantly to the field of radiology.1

Unique Aspects of the Program

The University of Michigan’s IR residency is highly competitive, with only three positions available annually filled through the National Resident Matching Program. It is designed to be friendly towards both DO and IMG applicants, providing a diverse and inclusive training environment. Special application requirements include consideration for a maximum of one failed USMLE Step examination and candidates who have graduated within the last three years.1

Visa Support

The program offers visa support and can sponsor J-1 or H-1B visas for international medical graduates. This is vital for applicants who require visa assistance to pursue their residency training in the United States.1

Resident Life

Residents in the program often speak highly of the collegial environment and supportive community among faculty and peers, which significantly enhances the learning experience. Regular feedback and informal learning opportunities are integral to their education, making the residency not just a learning phase but also a transformative journey.

Application Process

Application to the IR residency is conducted through the Electronic Residency Application Service (ERAS). Interviews for prospective residents occur virtually and are scheduled in conjunction with the Diagnostic Radiology residency interviews, allowing greater flexibility for applicants, especially those coming from different time zones. The program strongly encourages candidates to submit their application materials promptly to ensure maximum visibility during the selection process.1