|
Interventional Radiology Interventional radiologists (IRs) use their expertise in reading X-rays, ultrasound and other medical images to guide small instruments such as catheters (tubes that measure just a few millimeters in diameter) through the blood vessels or other pathways to treat disease percutaneously (through the skin). These procedures are typically much less invasive and much less costly than traditional surgery. Interventional radiologists are medical doctors who have specialized in doing medical procedures that involve radiology. Radiologists use imaging equipment such as X-rays, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) to diagnose disease. IRs are board certified radiologists that are fellowship trained in percutaneous interventions using guided imaging. Their specialized training is certified by the America Board of Medical Specialties.
Common Interventional Procedures Chemoembolization Delivery of cancer-fighting agents directly to the site of a cancer tumor; currently being used mostly to treat cancers of the endocrine system, including melanoma and liver cancers. Biliary drainage and stenting Uses a stent (small mesh tube) to open up blocked ducts and allow bile to drain from the liver. Radio frequency (RF) ablation Use of radio frequency (RF) energy to kill cancerous tumors. Fallopian tube catheterization Uses a catheter to open blocked fallopian tubes without surgery; a treatment for infertility. Stent-graft Reinforces a ruptured or ballooning section of an artery (an aneurysm) with a fabric-wrapped stent, a small, flexible mesh tube used to "patch" the blood vessel. Also known as an endograph Hemodialysis access maintenance Use of angioplasty or thrombolysis to open blocked grafts for hemodialysis, which treats kidney failure. TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt) A life-saving procedure to improve blood flow and prevent hemorrhage in patients with severe liver dysfunction. Uterine fibroid embolization An embolization procedure of uterine arteries to shrink painful, enlarged, benign tumors in the uterus, also called UAE (Uterine Artery Embolization). Angiography An X-ray exam of the arteries and veins to diagnose blockages and other blood vessel problems; uses a catheter to enter the blood vessel and a contrast agent (X-ray dye) to make the artery or vein visible on the X-ray. Ball Memorial Hospital 2401 University Ave. Muncie, IN 47303 (765) 747-3111 |
|
|
.