RadRecognition
Highlighting radiologists getting recognition.
Alberta Radiologists—Driving Advancements That Set a New Benchmark in Patient Care
August, 2025
Alberta Health Services (AHS) has announced that a new, minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure is now available in Edmonton, Alberta to treat post-operative patients who develop potentially life-threatening blood clots in the lungs, known as pulmonary embolisms.
ASR President Dr. Rahim Samji and his colleagues in Interventional Radiology can now use continuous X-ray imaging to guide a catheter through a vein to the lungs to remove the clots—quickly restoring blood flow and significantly reducing the risk of heart failure or death. As a minimally invasive technique, this innovative procedure can eliminate the need for surgery, shorten recovery times, and allow patients to return home sooner.
Dr. Samji first performed this procedure in March 2024 as part of a pilot project at the Royal Alexandra Hospital and the University of Alberta Hospital. It has since become the standard of care at both sites and is now also offered at the Stollery Children's Hospital and Calgary Foothills Medical Centre. Over the past year, more than 50 procedures have been successfully completed in the Edmonton zone.
The Alberta Society of Radiologists celebrates this groundbreaking advancement, recognizing how the innovation and clinical excellence of Alberta radiologists are transforming patient care, improving outcomes, saving lives, and helping reduce strain on Alberta's healthcare system.
Click here to view the full AHS News Release.
Dr. Derek Emery & Dr. Sheila Appavoo
2025 Fellows of the CAR
The Alberta Society of Radiologists congratulates two of our members, Dr. Derek Emery and Dr. Sheila Appavoo, who were recognized for their excellence and dedication to the field of radiology at the 2025 CAR Awards, as 2025 Fellows of the CAR.
The Fellowship of the Canadian Association of Radiology (FCAR) is one of the highest honours that the CAR can bestow upon its members. Recognition as a Fellow of the CAR demonstrates a history of service to the CAR as a volunteer in collaboration and leadership, as well as clinical, scientific, and professional accomplishments.
To learn more about CAR and view all the 2025 CAR Awards recipients visit www.CAR.ca
Dr. Rahim Samji – Article
The Foundation Stones of Medicine: Diagnostic Imaging
Diagnostic imaging therapies can decrease the hospital stay for patients.
Alberta Medical Association, Alberta Doctors Digest. September – October 2024
Dr. Christine Molnar
Inaugural award recipient of the ASR Lifetime Achievement Award 2024
The inaugural Alberta Society of Radiologists Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Dr. Christine Molnar in recognition of her exceptional contributions and dedication to the field of diagnostic imaging in Alberta. Dr. Molnar is a truly deserving recipient and the epitome of excellence in the medical profession. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Molnar has exemplified the highest standards of patient care, innovation, and leadership. Chris has been a staff radiologist, and nuclear medicine specialist at Foothills Medical Centre, since 1985. During her nearly 50-year career, Chris has demonstrated a dedication to building programs and spearheading initiatives that improve patient care as well as advocating for not just radiologists but for all physicians.
Her most notable leadership roles include serving as AMA President Elect, President, and Past President from 2018 – 2021. This was an incredible achievement and service to our profession, our specialty and our patients. She has also served as the ASR President from 2008-2010 and continues to serve as the VP of Breast Imaging and Interventions. Chris has been a driving force in the collaborative relationship with the former Alberta Cancer Board and now AHS, laying the foundation of the Alberta Breast Cancer Screening Program from 1995 to present and enabling so much of what we value in our Alberta program.
