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Interventional Radiology
Interventional Radiology uses image guidance from ultrasound, CT or fluoroscopy to perform minimally invasive diagnostic exams and therapeutic procedures. Interventional Radiologists perform a wide variety of procedures through very narrow catheters, often sparing the patient an open surgical procedure. The most common interventional procedure is diagnostic angiography, where contrast is injected into a blood vessel to show any significant narrowing. Other interventional procedures include, but are not limited to:
• Angioplasty
• Vascular stent placement
• Vertebroplasty
• Catheter directed infusions
• Placement of central venous lines
• Maintenance of dialysis access
• Biliary and urinary tract procedures
• Varicose and spider vein treatments
How to Prepare
| 1. Do not eat or drink at least 4 hours prior to the procedure; check with your physician if there is a twelve hour fast. |
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| 2. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. You will need to remove all clothing and jewelry in the area to be examined. | |
| 3. Report to your physician all medications that you are taking, including herbal supplements. | |
| 4. Report to your physician any allergies you may have, especially to anesthesia or to contrast materials. | |
| 5. Check with your physician if you are on blood thinners (Coumadin, Warfarin). You may need to stop your medication and/or have blood coagulation tests within normal values prior to the procedure. | |
| 6. Check with your primary physician if you are taking Insulin. The morning dose on the day of the procedure may need to be adjusted because of skipping breakfast. |
What to Expect
Most patients will receive sedation and pain medicine through an IV. Patients rarely require general anesthesia. All patients are observed after the procedure and most are released in two to four hours. You should plan on having a friend or relative drive you home after your procedure.
For more information about Interventional Radiology, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org.
