Having lasted for several months, the world is keenly aware of the impact that the military conflict with Russia has had on Ukraine. Among the many losses to social structures and life sustaining systems in Ukraine, the conflict has affected the ability for radiologists and medical professionals to maintain their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), especially as it applies to emergency and trauma imaging. Aiming to provide aid to these professionals as the situation continues, the Canadian Emergency, Trauma, and Acute Care Radiology Society (CETARS) has set up a series of educational webinars focusing on all aspects of emergency and trauma care imaging, using a head-to-toe approach.
The initiative has been spearheaded by the CETARS President, Dr. Savvas Nicolaou and Vice-President, Dr. Michael Patlas.
“Given the military conflict, there is an essential need for additional education in the area of trauma and emergency imaging,” says Dr. Patlas. “Our Ukrainian colleagues require practical advice on the best imaging techniques including rapid scanning protocols and imaging appearance in patients with blunt and penetrating trauma.”
Dr. Patlas says it was important for the CETARS to step in and help the medical professionals in Ukraine because of the depth and breadth of knowledge Canadian radiologists have in the field of emergency and trauma imaging.
“Canadian emergency radiologists are world leaders in international radiology education and deliver a large number of premiere lectures across the world. International education is one of the top priorities for the CETARS, and we are presently working on extending the successful Ukrainian initiative to additional countries.”
While future webinar dates are still being confirmed, Dr. Patlas says the first webinars took place in September and October, soon to be followed by more in November. Beyond that, five more sessions are planned from January to May of 2023.