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Interventional Radiology
Information for patients
Interventional radiology is a relatively new branch of medicine (with most advances made within the last 20 years) that, through rapidly advancing imaging technology, has allowed the development of many new treatments for certain diseases. Interventional radiology techniques are minimally invasive, usually only requiring very small skin incisions, and in many instances can treat conditions which previously required major surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Interventional Radiology
What is Interventional Radiology ? How is Interventional Radiology performed? What sort of procedures does Interventional Radiology cover? Can I go home immediately after Interventional Radiology? Where can I learn more about Interventional Radiology?
What is Interventional Radiology? Interventional Radiology is the branch of radiology in which image guided diagnostic or therapeutic procedures are achieved via a small puncture of a vessel or organ or through a body opening. It is a form of minimally invasive procedure often replacing the need for major surgery. How is Interventional Radiology performed? The imaging equipment (most commonly either ultrasound or X-ray) is used to guide the positioning of a small tube (catheter) through a tiny skin wound to the site of disease, which can then be treated. The wound does not usually require stitches. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesic or sedation. A general anaesthetic is rarely required. What sort of procedures does Interventional Radiology cover? Commonly performed procedures include:
Angioplasty and stent insertion (opening blocked or narrowed arteries) Biliary stenting/drainage (relieving bile duct obstruction/jaundice)
Nephrostomy / ureteric stent insertion (relieving kidney obstruction) Varicocoele embolisation - a highly effective alternative to surgery. Ovarian vein embolisation for pelvic venous congestion / pelvic varicose veins.
Vertebroplasty - a newer technique to treat the pain from vertebral fractures. Fallopian tube recanalization - used to treat some types of infertility.
If you do not see a particular procedure mentioned, please ask your doctor to enquire by either telephoning or e-mailing us. Can I go home immediately after Interventional Radiology? This depends on the nature of the procedure and your general health, but many patients can return home the same day or require only a short stay in hospital.
Where can I learn more about Interventional Radiology? We highly recommend the British Society of Interventional Radiology who have a comprehensive list of Information Leaflets about different Interventional Radiology procedures that can be downloaded.
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