Interventional radiology

What is interventional radiology?

Interventional radiology is a medical specialty where endovascular or percutaneous interventions are performed under radiological guidance. The radiologist, under X-ray, ultrasound, or scannographic control, reaches a lesion inside the body either for diagnostic purposes (to take a sample, for example) or for therapeutic purposes (to repair, heal, close, etc.).

Interventional radiology is used in a wide variety of fields such as oncology, vascular and neurovascular diseases, gastroenterology, osteoarticular diseases, urology, gynecology, senology, thoracic diseases, pediatrics, neurology, etc.

How to prepare for it?

Follow your doctor's recommendations about taking your medications. Do not eat or drink anything if you have been asked to do so. Answer all the questions asked by the radiologist. You must report the following conditions:

• if you are taking anticoagulants or antiaggregants;
• if you are pregnant or likely to be pregnant;
• if you are allergic;
• if you are diabetic;
• if you have renal insufficiency;
• if you have thyroid dysfunction or disease.

The examination

The examination is performed under local or general anesthesia. It takes place in an interventional radiography room under sterile conditions and generally lasts between 1 and 3 hours. The radiologist will introduce a needle or a catheter in the body part where the examination will take place. This will be done under radiological guidance. You will be asked to remain as still as possible.

What happens after the examination?

After the examination, a compressive dressing will be applied. The radiologist will give you instructions to follow. The procedure’s results will be sent by the radiologist to the prescribing physician.

The return home

You need to relax and rest. Remember to stay well hydrated. You must keep the bandage on for 24 hours after the examination. You should not drive for 24 hours and avoid exercise for 2 to 3 days.

YOUR CHILD HAS AN INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY EXAM:

X-ray doses are adjusted to the child's age and weight. The examination is performed under general anesthesia. A parent may be required to stay with the child.