When people hear “radiology,” they often think of X-rays or scans. But Interventional Radiology (IR) is more than just diagnosis—it’s about treatment. Using imaging guidance such as ultrasound, CT, or fluoroscopy, interventional radiologists can perform minimally invasive procedures that replace or complement surgery.
Here are five conditions that many patients don’t realize can be treated through IR:
1. Uterine Fibroids
Fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and fertility challenges.
- Traditional Treatment: Surgery such as hysterectomy (removal of the uterus).
- IR Solution: Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) blocks the blood supply to fibroids, shrinking them and reducing symptoms—all without major surgery.
- Benefit: Women keep their uterus, recovery is quicker, and most return to normal life in a week.
2. Varicose Veins & Venous Disorders
Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that cause pain, swelling, and cosmetic concerns.
- Traditional Treatment: Surgical vein stripping or painful procedures.
- IR Solution: Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA), Endovenous glue ablation or sclerotherapy closes off faulty veins using heat or medicine.
- Benefit: Outpatient procedure, minimal discomfort, better appearance, and long-term relief.
3. Blocked Arteries (Peripheral Artery Disease)
Blocked or narrowed arteries can cause leg pain, poor circulation, and risk of limb loss.
- Traditional Treatment: Open bypass surgery.
- IR Solution: Angioplasty and stenting—a tiny balloon opens up the artery, and a stent keeps it open.
- Benefit: Smaller incision, faster healing, and restored blood flow without major surgery.
4. Cancer Treatments
Interventional Radiology plays a vital role in cancer care.
- Procedures include:
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Destroys tumors using heat.
- Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): Delivers chemotherapy directly to the tumor site.
- Radioembolization (TARE): Delivers radiation directly to liver tumors.
- Benefit: Targets the cancer directly, reduces side effects compared to systemic chemotherapy, and offers options for patients not suited for surgery.
5. Kidney and Gallbladder Issues
Sometimes drainage or relief is needed without full surgery.
- IR Solution:
- Nephrostomy: A small tube placed in the kidney to relieve obstruction.
- Biliary Drainage/Stenting: Opens blocked bile ducts in liver or gallbladder issues.
- Benefit: Immediate relief, avoids complex surgeries, and helps stabilize patients quickly.
Why Choose Interventional Radiology?
- Minimally invasive
- Faster recovery
- Smaller scars
- Less pain and risk compared to traditional surgery
- Often performed as day-care or with short hospital stays
Interventional Radiology is transforming medicine by offering safer, quicker, and equally effective treatments for conditions that once required major surgery.
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