What Is Interventional Radiology?
A medical subspeciality of Radiology that plays a vital role in both emergency and elective care, Interventional Radiology (IR) is the minimally invasive, image-guided treatment of certain diseases/ conditions that may otherwise require an open surgery.
IR procedures are performed with the help of advanced imaging modalities like MRI, CT and ultrasound scans, in cath labs/ sterile operation theatre environments. The interventional radiologist can see the inside of the body and treat complex conditions ranging from brain aneurysms to cancers, through very small incisions (2-3mm in 90% cases), with unmatched precision and speed.
What are the benefits of Interventional Radiology Procedures
Avoids major surgeries in certain conditions/ diseases
Mostly performed under local anaesthesia/sedation
Tiny incision, minimal scarring
Significantly lesser post-surgery pain
Minimal blood loss
Fewer post-surgical complications
Faster recovery
Shorter hospital stay/ same-day discharge for many procedures