Interventional Radiology: A Minimally Invasive Approach to Treatment
Interventional radiology (IR) is a medical specialty that uses minimally invasive image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat diseases in nearly every organ system. IR procedures are typically performed using X-ray fluoroscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to guide the placement of catheters and other instruments into the body. IR procedures offer many advantages over traditional open surgery, including: Smaller incisions Less pain Shorter recovery times Fewer risks of infection and bleeding Lower cost Some of the most common IR procedures include: Angiography and angioplasty: These procedures are used to diagnose and treat blockages in the arteries and veins. Embolization: This procedure is used to block blood flow to a tumor or other abnormal tissue. Stent placement: This procedure is used to keep an artery or vein open after angioplasty. Biopsy: This procedure is used to remove a small sample of tissue for testing. Drainage...