Overview of Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology is the procedural sub-specialty of radiology. Interventional radiologists perform procedures to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Areas of the body are accessed through minimally invasive techniques using imaging guidance. X-ray, ultrasound or CT scans are used to guide the movement of instruments within the body during these procedures.
These radiology procedures often provide alternatives to surgery and have many advantages. They have significantly shorter recovery periods, less severe side effects, less scarring, are often faster, and usually do not require general anesthesia. Often they provide alternatives for people who have inoperable conditions or are otherwise not candidates for conventional surgery.