Departments
Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology uses imaging to guide minimally invasive diagnostic and treatment procedures. Needles, catheters, and other instruments are directed to a target through small skin entry points.
What the department does
The specialty includes image-guided biopsy, drainage, vascular access, embolisation, angioplasty, stenting, and tumour ablation. The appropriate procedure and imaging method depend on the condition and treatment goal.
Conditions and clinical questions addressed
Clinical questions may involve obtaining tissue for diagnosis, treating selected tumours, controlling bleeding, restoring blood flow, or draining a collection. Suitability depends on the location of the target and the patient’s clinical condition.
Clinical approach
Procedures may use ultrasound, CT, fluoroscopy, or other imaging for guidance. Planning considers the expected benefit, access route, bleeding risk, and whether sedation or anaesthesia is required. Care is coordinated with the referring team.
What patients can expect
Before a procedure, patients discuss their medical history, medicines, allergies, and relevant investigations. The team explains preparation and aftercare, including any instructions about fasting or medicines. Recovery and observation vary by procedure. Ask when results will be available and what follow-up or activity restrictions apply.