Understanding Interventional Radiology
Interventional Radiology is a specialized area of medicine that uses imaging — such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound or MRI — to guide small instruments like catheters and needles through the body. This allows physicians to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions in a minimally invasive way, often without the need for traditional surgery. Common IR procedures include biopsies, drain placements, angiograms, and treatments for blocked blood vessels or certain cancers.
Learn more about interventional radiology
Preparing for Interventional Radiology Procedure
Preparation will vary depending on the type of procedure you are having. You will receive detailed instructions specific to your procedure ahead of time.
- You may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for several hours beforehand.
- Medications: Let us know what medications you take, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and over-the-counter supplements and medications. You may need to temporarily stop taking certain medications.
- Allergies: Inform us of any allergies, especially to iodine, contrast dye or latex.
- Bring a driver: Many interventional radiology procedures require sedation, so you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
- Check-in: When you arrive, you’ll check in at the front desk and be guided to the interventional radiology area.
- Pre-Procedure Prep: A nurse will review your health history, start an IV if needed and help you prepare.
- Procedure: You’ll go to a procedure room, where the interventional radiologist will use imaging guidance to perform your treatment or test. Most patients are awake but comfortable with light sedation.
- Recovery: After your procedure, you’ll rest in a recovery area, where our team will monitor you. Recovery time varies, but most patients go home the same day.
Results
- If your procedure involved a biopsy or diagnostic test, your ordering provider will receive the results, typically within a few days.
- For therapeutic procedures, the interventional radiologist will provide immediate feedback and instructions before you go home.
- A detailed report will be sent to your referring provider, who will follow up with you to review results and next steps.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your ordering provider. We’re here to help and ensure you have the support you need.
To locate your ordering provider in MyThedaCare, simply log in and check the “Visits” or “Test Results” sections, where the provider is typically listed. You may also find this information under “Messages” or “Care Team.”
If you’re still unsure, feel free to send a message through MyThedaCare, and a member of our staff will be happy to assist you further.
