Interventional Radiology

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Biopsy:

Interventional Radiology could be a simple procedure like taking a biopsy. This is done with an ultrasound or CT scanner so that the specialist can see the needle. The needle is placed correctly in the tumor and the risk of biopsy is greatly reduced. The same technique can be used to drain pus or blood that has accumulated in the chest or abdomen. Under CT or US guidance a catheter can be placed into the collection. A simple procedure that saves the patient from major surgery.

Angioplasty:

On the DSA, the catheter is introduced inside the blood vessel to do the angiogram and can be used to treat many diseases. A blocked vessel can be opened with a catheter with a balloon. This is Angioplasty.

Embolization:

There are several situations where a vessel must be blocked as part of the treatment. When there are severe bleeding and blood transfusion does not help, blocking the blood vessel from inside will save a life. This process is called Embolisation and is the preferred method of treating GI bleeds due to Psuedoanerysms.

Chemoembolization:

This is a technique where the cancer medicine is injected straight into the blood vessel going into the tumor. The usual side effects of taking cancer medicines can be avoided and specialists can ensure that the tumor receives a high dose. This treatment option is now being given to patients with liver cancer who cannot have surgery.

Radiofrequency Ablation:

A promising new technique for treating small (< 4cm) hepatocellular carcinomas and metastasis from colorectal cancer. Radiofrequency Ablation involves placing a 16G needle into the lesion under US or CT guidance and producing tumor ablation by heating.

Non-Surgical Solution for PAD:

Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) is a common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to your limbs. The interventional radiologist uses non-surgical angioplasty and stenting, which is performed to open the blood vessel where it is narrowed or blocked.

The Benefits Of Interventional Radiology:

  • The imaging techniques allow accurate diagnosis and treatment using cutting-edge equipment.
  • Minimally invasive procedures are performed through a small nick in the skin, minimizing the patient’s discomfort and recovery time.
  • As interventional procedures tend to require only local anesthesia, hospital stays are very short, with patients often going home the same day the procedure is performed.
  • In addition, the techniques can be used on very sick patients who are unfit for surgery.
  • Patients who undergo IR procedures experience less pain during and after the procedure than patients undergoing open surgical procedures.
  • Post-procedural care is provided, along with follow-up imaging to confirm if the treatment has been successful.