What is interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology (IR) is a subspecialty of radiology that uses imaging techniques like X-ray and ultrasound to guide small tools into the body to diagnose and treat disease. Our interventional radiologists are board-certified doctors who have completed at least six years of specialized training after medical school.
Guided by imaging, radiologists can follow the flow of injected dye to locate problems such as a tumor or clot. Interventional radiology procedures also can open blocked vessels, dissolve blood clots, deliver cancer treatment and more.
Benefits of interventional radiology treatments include:
- Lower risk of complications
- Less pain
- Less scarring
- Shorter recovery time
- May eliminate the need for general anesthesia or hospitalization.
Additionally, IR can provide treatment options if you have been diagnosed with an inoperable condition.
What conditions can interventional radiology treat?
Interventional radiology can be used to diagnose and treat diseases in nearly every organ system. Common medical specialties that often use IR include:
- Heart and vascular – If you suffer from a condition such as arterial disease, deep venous thrombosis or varicose veins, there are many treatments available that can help you avoid open surgery. Learn more in our heart and vascular care section.
- Cancer – Interventional radiology can help locate tumors and treat them using procedures such as chemoemobolization. Learn more in our cancer care section.
- Men and women’s health – Conditions such as uterine fibroids in women and varicocele embolization in men often can be treated with minimally invasive, minimally disruptive IR procedures.