A cross-site vascular radiology on-call service: the Manchester experience.
OBJECTIVE
A cross-site vascular radiology on-call service was established 5 years ago to cover two vascular centres in Manchester. We aimed to review the service.


METHODS
A prospective audit of out-of hours referrals and procedures over a three month period (March-May 2003) was undertaken.


RESULTS
There were 52 incidents in 49 patients (mean 4 calls per week). Nine involved telephone advice only, the remainder (82%) required a procedure. Angiography was performed on 88% of patients and therapeutic radiological intervention on 50%. 71% of calls occurred at a weekend. 50% of the calls were from vascular surgery and 50% from other sources. The consultant vascular radiologist was present for 93% of procedures.


CONCLUSIONS
The workload suggests that a vascular radiology on call service is justified in Manchester. There have been no major problems with its implementation and operation. This is a consultant led service, with very few cases being devolved to a specialist registrar (SpR).
Ashleigh
R J
RJ
Department of Radiology, South Manchester University Hospital NHS Trust, Southmoor Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester M23 8LR, UK. ray.ashleigh@smuht.nwest.nhs.com
Butterfield
J S
JS
Asquith
J
J
Chalmers
N
N
Murphy
G
G
D039602:After-Hours Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004630:Emergencies; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D004739:England; D006801:Humans; D008485:Medical Audit; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011859:Radiography; D011871:Radiology; D011872:Radiology Department, Hospital; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014652:Vascular Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D000078329:Workforce; D016526:Workload