Interventional Radiology

Interventional Radiology at Garnet Health

lnterventional Radiology (IR) is one of the fastest growing modalities in medicine today, offering treatments and procedures with less risk, less pain, and quicker recovery periods than the more conventional surgical approach. In most instances, these procedures can be performed through a very small incision into the skin, by utilizing the power of advanced imaging (ultrasound, X-rays, CAT scans, MRI scans and other innovative methods).

lnterventional radiologists, board-certified physicians who are trained in both radiology and minimally invasive therapies, can deliver precise, targeted treatment to complicated and sometimes life-threatening diseases and conditions. IR procedures are a well-accepted modality for conditions including, but not limited to:

• Peripheral vascular disease
• Cancer diagnosis and treatment (depending on the location)
• Uterine fibroids
• Biliary disease
• Urologic problems

IR is particularly beneficial for patients who are not well enough to undergo surgery, or who have already undergone numerous surgical procedures.

Preparing for Your IR Procedure

In this new era of medical treatments and breakthroughs, there is no longer one "right way" to treat your condition. At Garnet Health, we practice patient centered medicine, which means doing the right thing for each individual patient. Now more than ever, it is imperative for you to know and understand all of the options available to treat your condition or disease, and make an informed decision as to the treatment option you feel best suits you. In many cases, there is a minimally invasive approach that could dramatically reduce the risks, pain and recovery time associated with your treatment/procedure.

Upon Your Arrival

The day of your procedure, you will, in the majority of cases, be asked to have someone accompany you to drive you home and help you understand your discharge instructions. We encourage you to arrange this with a friend or family member a head of your appointment.

Once you arrive at our Interventional Radiology department, located at the main campus, a team of specialized nurses, technologists, and physicians will prep you and answer any remaining questions. Unlike open surgery, most IR procedures are done under local anesthesia or conscious sedation (rather than general anesthesia) so you will be relaxed, but awake enough to follow simple instructions during the entire process.

During and After Your Procedure

Once ready for the IR procedure, you will experience state-of-the art technology and a team of experts, led by the interventional radiologist, who will keep you comfortable during your minimally invasive treatment/procedure. Upon completion of your treatment/procedure, you will move to the recovery area, with the majority of procedures allowing for discharge the same day.

Certain procedures may require a planned, short hospital stay. In either event, your care team will review your anticipated recovery and discharge time, any restrictions you may have when you go home, possible complications associated with the procedure, and any necessary medications that may be required post procedure.