Interventional Neurologist

To become an Interventional Neurologist, candidates must complete MBBS, followed by MD/DNB in General Medicine, and then DM/DNB Neurology. After this, they must undergo advanced fellowship training in Interventional Neurology or Endovascular Neurosurgery, typically lasting 1–2 years, at a recognized high-volume stroke or neurointervention center. NMC or State Medical Council registration is mandatory. Some physicians may also complete international fellowships to gain exposure to advanced neurointerventional techniques.

In India, Interventional Neurologists earn between ₹35 lakh and ₹1 crore per annum, depending on experience, hospital infrastructure, procedural volume, and city. High-volume corporate hospitals and comprehensive stroke centers often offer revenue-sharing or per-procedure incentives, significantly increasing earning potential. Senior interventional neurologists in metro cities may earn beyond ₹1 crore annually.

Key skills include advanced neurovascular anatomy knowledge, catheter and guidewire handling, fluoroscopic imaging interpretation, procedural precision, and emergency decision-making. Strong hand–eye coordination, ability to perform under pressure, teamwork, and leadership in acute stroke settings are essential. Knowledge of stroke protocols, radiation safety, and post-procedural critical care management is also critical.

Interventional Neurologists work in tertiary-care hospitals, corporate hospitals, comprehensive stroke centers, neuro-ICUs, and academic medical institutions equipped with catheterization labs and advanced neuroimaging facilities. Some also work in trauma centers, teaching hospitals, or as visiting consultants across multiple hospitals.

Yes, Interventional Neurology is considered one of the highest-paying subspecialties in neurology. Due to the technical complexity, emergency nature of procedures, limited number of trained specialists, and high infrastructure requirements, this field commands premium compensation and strong demand across India and globally.

The qualification pathway includes MBBS → MD/DNB General Medicine → DM/DNB Neurology → Fellowship in Interventional Neurology. Candidates must hold valid NMC or State Medical Council registration. Fellowship training focuses on hands-on exposure to cerebral angiography, stroke interventions, aneurysm management, and endovascular techniques. Continuous skill upgradation and adherence to evolving stroke guidelines are essential in this field.

Salaries typically range from ₹35 lakh to ₹1 crore per year, influenced by years of experience, hospital type, city, procedural volume, and availability of stroke infrastructure. Metro cities and corporate hospitals offer higher compensation. Revenue-sharing models, on-call emergency incentives, and procedural fees can significantly boost income.

Essential skills include high-level procedural expertise, rapid decision-making, stress tolerance, and excellent teamwork. Strong understanding of cerebrovascular pathophysiology, imaging interpretation, radiation safety, and peri-procedural patient management is required. Communication skills are crucial for explaining high-risk procedures to patients and families.

They can work in comprehensive stroke centers, tertiary hospitals, academic institutions, and high-end corporate hospitals. Career growth includes roles such as Senior Interventional Neurologist, Director of Stroke Services, or Head of Neurointervention Units. Opportunities also exist in teaching, research, device trials, and international practice.

Yes, Interventional Neurology is both high-paying and future-oriented. With increasing stroke incidence and expansion of stroke centers across India, demand for trained interventional neurologists is rapidly growing. The limited supply of specialists and life-saving nature of procedures ensure strong long-term career prospects and financial rewards.