What Are Image Guided Procedures?
Physicians who subspecialize in image guided procedures know how to conduct minimally invasive, medical procedures using imaging guidance. These procedures can be used for diagnostic purposes (such as a tissue biopsy) or for treatment of a medical condition. Other physicians rely on interventional radiologists for their in-depth knowledge of the least invasive treatments available and for their diagnostic and clinical experience across all radiology specialties.
Because of interventional radiology, many conditions that once required surgery can now be diagnosed and treated with less invasive procedures. When compared to open surgery, these treatments reduce risk, decrease pain and lessen the time needed to recover from the procedure.
What Other Types of Physicians Do They Work With?
All of our radiologists work closely with other physicians and with the patient. It is important to us that we make certain communication is clear and complete among the patient, the patient’s personal physician and every other physician who may be involved with the patient.
What Health Issues And Body Systems Does This Subspecialty Commonly Work On?
The patients most often referred to a nonvascular interventional radiologist have a serious disease. The radiology works on treatments for conditions including:
- Diagnostis of Cancer (needle biopsy)
- Treatment of some cancers (radiofrequency ablation)
- Gastrostomy (feeding tubes)
- Liver disease
- Osteoporosis – treatment of vertebral fractures
- Pulmonary Embolism
- Trauma (embolization)
- Uterine Fibroids
- Central venous access
- Pleural effusions (thoracentesis)
- Ascites (paracentesis)
How Does This Radiology Physician Work With The Patient And The Patient’s Personal Physician?
The radiologist’s role varies. Much depends on the health issue, the personal or referring physician and the patient. At Radiology & Imaging, we prefer to have our radiologists as actively involved in diagnosing and considering treatment options as possible.
Our interventional radiologists have extensive training and experience in performing minimally invasive treatments. They are board certified in diagnostic radiology and have additional training in interventional radiology. This high degree of expertise enables them to properly identify characteristics in the images and conduct medical procedures that avoid surgery and give the patient the best opportunity for better long-term health.
