How interventional is examined
Phase 2 of the RANZCR clinical radiology training program is assessed with examinations that test image interpretation, pathology knowledge and clinical reasoning across body systems. Formats and weightings change, so check the current RANZCR examination information and Phase 2 learning outcomes.
High-yield topics
| Topic | Key imaging points |
|---|---|
| Biopsy and drainage | Approach, safety, complications |
| Coagulation | Procedure risk categories and thresholds |
| Embolisation | GI bleeding, trauma, PPH |
| Vascular access | Central lines and ports |
| Contrast reactions | Recognition and treatment |
Worked questions
Worked question · Contrast reaction
A patient develops wheeze and hypotension after IV contrast. What is the first drug?
- A IM adrenaline
- B Oral antihistamine
- C IV hydrocortisone
- D Oral prednisolone
- E IV paracetamol
Show the reasoning
Answer A. This is anaphylaxis. Give IM adrenaline promptly, call for help, give oxygen and fluids.
A search pattern for reporting
- Indication and appropriateness
- Consent with material risks and alternatives
- Coagulation, antithrombotics and renal function
- Allergy and contrast plan
- Sedation and monitoring
- Procedure plan and access route
- Post-procedure care and follow-up
Use the same order every time so that nothing is missed under exam conditions, then finish with a concise conclusion and recommendation.
Signs and differentials to know
| Imaging sign or finding | Think of |
|---|---|
| Haemodynamically unstable pelvic fracture | Angioembolisation |
| Upper GI bleed after failed endoscopy | Gastroduodenal or left gastric artery embolisation |
| Obstructed infected kidney | Urgent nephrostomy |
| Malignant biliary obstruction | Biliary drainage or stent |
| Post-partum haemorrhage refractory to treatment | Uterine artery embolisation |
| Iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm | Thrombin injection |
A 4-week revision block
| Week | Focus |
|---|---|
| 1 | Procedures and consent |
| 2 | Vascular and embolisation |
| 3 | Complications and safety |
| 4 | Mixed questions |
Pair reading with daily timed questions and image review on teaching files, and log every missed structure or sign.
Common traps
- Ignoring coagulation thresholds.
- Slow treatment of contrast reactions.
- Unclear consent.
Free sample interventional questions
Questions from our Radiology Phase 2 bank. Choose your answer, then open the explanation.
Main indication for an IVC filter:
- ASuperficial thrombophlebitis
- BProphylaxis before any minor surgery
- CAcute DVT, anticoagulation unsafe
- DVaricose veins
- EAll DVT patients
Show answer and explanation
Answer C. Filters are for acute proximal DVT/PE when anticoagulation is contraindicated; retrieve when possible.
Learning point: IVC filter: anticoagulation contraindicated; retrieve.
Before a high-risk percutaneous procedure such as liver biopsy, what is usually checked?
- ASerum calcium only
- BUrine microscopy
- CHbA1c and fasting glucose
- DTSH and free T4
- EINR and platelets
Show answer and explanation
Answer E. Bleeding risk assessment includes INR and platelets, and a plan for antithrombotic medicines, according to consensus guidelines.
Learning point: Check INR and platelets before high-risk procedures.
Seldinger technique involves:
- ADirect trocar
- BNeedle, wire, then catheter
- CCatheter without a wire
- DLaser
- ESurgical cutdown on the vessel
Show answer and explanation
Answer B. Needle puncture, wire through needle, needle removed, catheter or sheath over wire.
Learning point: Seldinger: needle, wire, catheter.
Practise more interventional questions free
Every interventional subtopic in our bank
The bank holds 18 interventional questions across 17 subtopics. You can filter by any of them, build a custom block and track your accuracy subtopic by subtopic.
- Abscess drainage1
- Biliary drainage1
- Biopsy coagulation1
- Coagulation for biopsy1
- Contrast extravasation1
- Contrast nephropathy1
- Embolisation for haemoptysis1
- Femoral puncture1
- GI bleeding1
- IVC filter2
- Nephrostomy1
- Pseudoaneurysm1
- Seldinger1
- Thrombolysis stroke1
- TIPS1
- Uterine artery embolisation1
- Varicocele embolisation1
Common questions
What does Phase 2 assess?
Image interpretation, pathology and clinical reasoning across body systems. Check RANZCR for current formats.
How should I practise?
Daily timed questions with image review, and structured reporting practice.
Are contrast reactions examined?
Yes. Recognition and first-line treatment are core safety knowledge.
Sources
Clinical content is summarised from current Australian guidance at the date above. Guidelines change, so always check the latest edition.