Interventional Radiology Treatable Conditions

Liver Tumors

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and selective internal radiation therapy (Y-90 radioembolization) are targeted treatments that deliver chemotherapy or radiation directly to liver tumors while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Traditional Methods:

Liver resection surgery, Systemic chemotherapy, Liver transplantation (in eligible patients)

IR Benefits:

Preserves more healthy liver tissue compared to surgery
Lower systemic toxicity than IV chemotherapy
Can be repeated multiple times if tumors recur
Improves progression-free survival in intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)

Kidney Stones

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) involves using a nephroscope through a small incision in the back to remove large or complex kidney stones that cannot be treated with non-invasive methods.

Traditional Methods:

Open stone surgery, Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL), Ureteroscopy with laser lithotripsy

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive approach for large or staghorn calculi
Higher clearance rates for complex stones compared to ESWL
Faster recovery and reduced pain versus open surgery
Decreased need for multiple procedures

Spinal Compression Fractures

Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are image-guided procedures where bone cement is injected into fractured vertebrae, stabilizing the spine and alleviating pain due to osteoporosis or metastatic disease.

Traditional Methods:

Conservative therapy (bed rest, analgesics, bracing), Open spinal fusion (for severe or unstable fractures)

IR Benefits:

Rapid and significant pain relief in up to 90% of patients
Improved mobility and reduced need for pain medications
Outpatient or same-day procedure under conscious sedation
Restores vertebral height (kyphoplasty) and prevents further collapse

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) blocks the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink and symptoms to improve, while preserving the uterus.

Traditional Methods:

Hysterectomy, Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids)

IR Benefits:

Preserves the uterus and fertility potential
Shorter recovery than surgical options
90%+ symptom relief rate (bleeding, pressure)
Lower complication rates compared to open surgery

Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)

Angioplasty and stenting are minimally invasive procedures used to restore blood flow in narrowed or blocked peripheral arteries, improving circulation and reducing symptoms like claudication.

Traditional Methods:

Bypass graft surgery, Conservative management with medications and exercise

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive with lower procedural risk
Immediate symptom relief in most cases
Shorter recovery time compared to bypass surgery
Can be performed on an outpatient basis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT involves the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs, which can lead to complications like pulmonary embolism if not treated promptly.

Traditional Methods:

Anticoagulation therapy, Compression stockings, Surgical thrombectomy (in severe cases)

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive approach to remove or dissolve clots
Preserves vein function and reduces long-term complications
Shorter recovery time compared to open surgery
Can be performed under local anesthesia in many cases

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

PE occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and potentially causing respiratory and cardiac complications.

Traditional Methods:

Anticoagulation therapy, Surgical embolectomy (in life-threatening cases)

IR Benefits:

Rapid restoration of blood flow to the lungs
Minimally invasive technique with reduced recovery time
Can be performed in patients who are not surgical candidates
Lower risk of complications compared to open surgery

Varicocele

A varicocele is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum, often leading to infertility or testicular discomfort.

Traditional Methods:

Open surgical ligation, Laparoscopic surgery

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive procedure with a high success rate
Quick recovery time, often allowing same-day discharge
Lower complication rates compared to traditional surgery
Preserves fertility potential in many cases

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland, leading to urinary symptoms such as frequent urination and difficulty starting urination.

Traditional Methods:

Medication therapy, Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), Open prostatectomy

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive procedure with reduced risk of complications
Quick recovery time, often with immediate symptom relief
Preserves erectile and urinary function in many cases
Can be performed under local anesthesia in many cases

Pelvic Congestion Syndrome

This condition involves chronic pelvic pain due to varicose veins in the pelvis, often affecting women of reproductive age.

Traditional Methods:

Conservative management (pain relief, physical therapy), Surgical ligation of veins

IR Benefits:

Minimally invasive approach with high success rates
Significant reduction in pelvic pain and discomfort
Quick recovery time, often with immediate symptom relief
Can be performed under local anesthesia in many cases

Gastrointestinal Bleeding

GI bleeding can result from various causes, including ulcers, varices, or tumors, leading to significant blood loss and requiring prompt intervention.