Top-rated abstract

We talked to Dr. Pedro Marinho Lopes, presenting author of one of the best-rated ET 2024 abstracts, HipE – preliminary results of HIP Embolization for pain control in hip artrosis and greater trochanter pain syndrome, to find out more about his research and his experience presenting at ET.

The abstract you submitted for ET 2024 on HipE – preliminary results of HIP Embolization for pain control in hip artrosis and greater trochanter pain syndrome was one of the top rated by the Scientific Programme Committee. What do you think makes this topic particularly relevant?

Marinho Lopes: Musculoskeletal embolization is undoubtedly a hot topic in the interventional radiology community. The promising results achieved so far indicate that this field could significantly transform our practice, particularly given the high patient volume it could address. The results on hip embolization we presented are not only highly encouraging, but also noteworthy for being the most extensive series in this specific anatomical area to date.

Why did you choose ET to present the preliminary results of your study?

Marinho Lopes: ET, as a congress entirely dedicated to embolization, is the ideal platform for this type of presentation. Additionally, musculoskeletal embolization has gained increasing prominence at ET in recent years. The event’s size also fosters direct interaction and valuable feedback from experts in the field.

What feedback did you receive on your presentation at the congress and after?

Marinho Lopes: The feedback was overwhelmingly positive and constructive. I received insightful advice that will help refine the study, bringing it closer to its ultimate goal: a submission as a full-length manuscript.

How has the presentation of your study results at ET impacted your career?

Marinho Lopes: It has significantly increased the visibility of our group’s work, which is immensely rewarding.

Do you have any advice for physicians on how to achieve maximum impact with an abstract on their research?

Marinho Lopes: Focus on areas that are still relatively unexplored, and always produce abstracts that have the potential for publication, rather than just another conference poster.

What is next in your research? Will you continue to focus on pain treatment?

Marinho Lopes: I am currently deeply focused on musculoskeletal embolization. Our ongoing projects revolve around this field, which I firmly believe will be a game-changer. In addition to joint-related treatments (hip, knee, and shoulder), we are also exploring applications for tendinopathies.

Are you planning to submit an abstract for ET 2025 as well? And if so, can you share what it will be about?

Marinho Lopes: Absolutely! I can share that it will certainly be related to this technique, but applied to a different anatomical area. I hope it receives the same level of recognition as our 2024 submission. As ET 2025 will take place in my hometown, Oporto, I would like to take this opportunity to warmly invite everyone interested in embolization to register for the congress. I am confident it will be a truly memorable event!