Interventional radiology is a specialized branch of radiology in which doctors use not only imaging techniques, but they also perform minimally invasive procedures through tiny incisions in the body.
The Medical Conditions Treated with Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology is a relatively new branch of medical science, but it is already used efficiently for the treatment of numerous conditions that were previously treatable only through major surgery. These interventions are performed with catheters guided with the help of imaging equipment and are minimally invasive, bringing benefits, such as lower costs, faster healing and the reduced risk of complications. Here are some of the most common procedures:
- Embolization for the treatment of uterine fibroids – these interventions consist of introducing radioactive particles into the arteries that supply the fibroids with blood to cut of the blood supply and to achieve the subsequent reduction of the size of the fibroids or to make them disappear completely;
- Radioembolization for the treatment of liver tumors – the procedure is essentially the same as in the case of uterine fibroids, with the catheter inserted to cut off the blood supply to the tumor in the liver;
- Angioplasty – the intervention is used unblocking blood vessels that have been clogged or the diameter of which has decreased to a dangerous level;
- Thrombolysis – these interventions dissolve blood clots;
- Radiofrequency ablation – these procedures are very efficient in reducing nerve pain;
- The treatment of kidney stone and gall stones – interventional radiology is often used for destroying these formations, too;
- Biopsies – interventional radiology is often used for taking tissue samples from the body’s organs to allow the pathotologist to determine whether the tissue contains cancerous cells or to determine pathogens.
The Training and Education of Interventional Radiologists
Interventional radiologists are medical professionals who have attended four years of medical school to become doctors, then they continued their studies attending four years of residency in diagnostic radiology, then they attend a one- or two-year specialization in interventional radiology. They also need to pass complex exams to receive a license to practice. These interventional radiologist Fort Collins specialists are therefore equally trained and experienced in interpreting X-ray images, CT and MRI results and in using special equipment to perform interventions.
Interventional radiologists also need knowledge and experience in using complex computer programs and specialized pieces of equipment used during the procedures they perform.
The Work of Interventional Radiologists
These medical specialists work in the interventional radiology departments of hospitals, usually not alone, but with an experienced clinical nurse. Their activities, tasks and duties include talking to patients to inform them about what to expect of the upcoming procedure and how to prepare for it, preparing the patients for the intervention when already in the intervention room by introducing the catheter, then injecting the substance used for the treatment and the removal of the catheter when the procedure is complete. The radiologist will also participate in the process of monitoring the patient’s condition after the intervention and in any further consultation regarding the healing process.