Interventional Radiology
What is interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology uses medical imaging to guide instruments such as needles or catheters to a specific location in the body. The imaging method may include ultrasound, CT or X-ray guidance, depending on the procedure.
Many image-guided procedures can be performed through a small puncture rather than a larger surgical incision. Some are diagnostic, such as obtaining a tissue sample, while others are intended to treat a particular condition.
The procedure offered, its expected benefits and the alternatives depend on the clinical indication. Your referring team and the interventional specialist will confirm whether a particular procedure is appropriate and available.
What to expect
- The team will explain the planned procedure, its purpose, alternatives and potential risks before obtaining consent.
- Tell staff about allergies, previous reactions to contrast, pregnancy, relevant illnesses and medicines, especially blood thinners.
- You may need blood tests or instructions about fasting and regular medication; follow the advice for your specific procedure.
- Ask whether someone should accompany you or arrange transport home, particularly if sedation is planned.
- You will be positioned to allow the team to reach the area being treated or sampled safely.
- Ultrasound, CT or X-ray images are used to guide the needle, catheter or other instrument.
- Local anaesthetic may be used to numb the area, and some procedures require additional medication or sedation.
- The team monitors you as appropriate and explains important steps during the procedure when possible.
- You may need monitoring for a period after the procedure, depending on what was done and which medicines were used.
- The team will explain how to care for the puncture site and whether to limit physical activity temporarily.
- Seek medical advice promptly if you develop significant bleeding, worsening pain, fever or other symptoms highlighted in your discharge instructions.
- If a sample was taken, laboratory analysis may be required before a final result is available.
Safety and results
- The risks vary by procedure and can include bleeding, infection, injury to nearby structures or reactions to medication or contrast.
- The team considers your medical history, blood-thinning medicines and any required laboratory tests when planning the procedure.
- Some procedures use X-ray or CT guidance and therefore involve ionising radiation; ultrasound-guided procedures do not.
- The clinician will discuss the expected benefits, possible complications and alternatives before proceeding.
Please contact our team if you have questions about your examination or preparation instructions.
The interventional team documents the procedure performed, the imaging findings and any immediate outcome. If a biopsy or fluid sample was collected, the sample may need separate laboratory testing and its result may not be available at the same time as the procedure report. Your treating healthcare professional will explain the findings, any required follow-up and the next steps in your care.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.
For questions about your findings or treatment, please speak to your referring healthcare professional.