In recent years, interventional radiology has become an increasingly important part of the medical field. This minimally invasive specialty uses imaging guidance to perform procedures that can diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions.
Interventional radiologists like Dr Johan Blickman are highly trained specialists who use their expertise in both imaging and procedural skills to provide the best possible care for their patients. In addition, they can offer a wide range of procedures and techniques, which means they can tailor their care to each patient’s needs.
Some of the most common interventional radiology procedures include:
1) angiography: In this procedure, a small catheter is inserted into an artery, and contrast dye is injected. X-rays are then used to take pictures of the arteries. This can diagnose problems such as blockages or narrowing of the arteries.
2) angioplasty: This procedure treats narrow or blocked arteries. A small balloon is inserted into the artery and then inflated. This opens up the artery and improves blood flow.
3) thrombolysis: This is a procedure used to treat blood clots. Medication is injected into the clot to dissolve it.
4) embolization: This procedure treats conditions such as bleeding or tumors. A small device is inserted into the blood vessel and used to block off the bleeding area or cut off the blood supply to the tumor.
5) biopsy: This procedure is used to take a tissue sample for testing. A small needle is inserted into the area of concern, and a small tissue sample is removed.
6) drainages: This is a procedure used to remove fluid from an area. A small tube is inserted into the area where the fluid is, and the fluid is drained out.
7) radiofrequency ablation: This is a procedure used to treat cancer. A small probe is inserted into the tumor, and high-frequency waves are used to destroy the tumor cells.
8) vertebroplasty: This procedure treats broken bones in the spine. A small amount of bone cement is injected into the broken bone to stabilize it.
9) stenting: This procedure treats blockages in the arteries or other blood vessels. A small tube called a stent is inserted into the blocked vessel to keep it open.
10) gastrostomy: This is a procedure used to treat problems with the stomach or intestines. A small tube is inserted through the skin and into the stomach or intestine. This can be used to provide nutrition or to relieve blockages.
Each of these procedures has unique risks and benefits, which will be discussed in more detail below. Angiography, for example, carries a small risk of bleeding or infection at the site where the catheter is inserted. Angioplasty can cause bruising, bleeding, or infection at the incision site. Thrombolysis carries a risk of bleeding or stroke. Embolization can cause bruising, bleeding, or infection at the site of the incision. Finally, a biopsy can cause bleeding or infection at the needle insertion site.
In conclusion, interventional radiology is a minimally invasive specialty that offers various procedures and techniques. These procedures can be used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions.
