INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY SERVICES
We provide several convenient locations for Interventional Radiology services. All our facilities are equipped with the specialized imaging technology and can provide the majority of exams ordered by your physician. Patients that require specific services (i.e., advanced neurological or therapeutic procedures) may be referred to key locations.
Hospital locations with Interventional Radiology:
What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional Radiology is a rapidly growing area of medicine. Interventional Radiologists are physicians who specialize in minimally invasive, targeted treatments performed using imaging guidance. Interventional radiology procedures are an advance in medicine that replaces open surgical procedures. They are generally easier for the patient because they involve no large incisions, less risk, less pain and shorter recovery times.
Interventional Radiologists use their expertise in reading X-rays, ultrasound and other medical images to guide small instruments such as catheters (tubes that measure just a few millimeters in diameter) through the blood vessels or other pathways to treat disease percutaneously (through the skin). These procedures are typically much less invasive and much less costly than traditional surgery.
How do I prepare for the exam?
The exam, which is ordered by your physician, will often require sedation. Because of this you are requested to limit, if not withhold, anything by mouth (excluding routine medications). Check with your physician about medications that require you to eat prior to taking. Other procedures do not require sedation but require the injection of X-ray dye. For this procedure your intake may be limited as well.
You should wear comfortable clothing and be aware that most procedures require you to change into a gown. Following the exam, a resting recovery period is required, at which time your family members may stay with you. You may be asked to arrive 1-2 hours prior to your procedure. This time may be spent evaluating laboratory results that may impact your procedure.
Patients will be asked specific questions about their medications and symptoms. A short version of a physical exam may be required. This allows the Interventional Radiologist to become aware of any conditions that may affect you and your procedure.
 How is the exam performed?
During your Interventional procedure you may be asked to hold your breath from time to time. This will insure that the images are not blurry or have motion. All procedures will be explained in great detail prior to the start of any exam. Some procedures do require patients to lie flat for extended periods. If this is the case, a mild sedative can be prescribed.
How do I obtain the results of the exam?
Your physician should provide you with the results of the exam. The radiologist will interpret most procedures the same day it is performed. Some cases will require comparison to other exams that may result in a slight delay. In most cases we provide results directly to your physicians as soon as the accuracy of your report is verified by the radiologist.
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