MedXray - Interventional Radiology: Procedures

Interventional Radiology

Procedures
Interventional Radiology is used to diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions. Thanks to advancing technology, the list of capabilities for this expanding field continues to grow. Some of the procedures available at MedXray are listed below.

Biopsy
Taking of a tissue sample from the area of interest for pathological examination from a percutaneous or transjugular approach.

Chemoembolization
Delivering cancer treatment directly to a tumor (particularly liver tumors) through its blood supply, then using clot-inducing substances to block the artery, ensuring that the delivered chemotherapy is not "washed out" by continued blood flow.

Cryoablation
Localized destruction of tumors by freezing.

Diagnostic and Interventional Angiography
The IR physicians at MedXray are the endovascular experts. We specialize in peripheral (leg) and visceral (mesenteric and renal) arteriography with intervention as appropriate, as well as venous imaging. We can perform invasive imaging (conventional angiography) of the arteries and/or veins with the use of various contrast media, including iodinated contrast, gadolinium based agents and CO₂ gas. Abnormalities can usually be treated in the same setting. Treatments may include angioplasty, stent placement, stent- graft placement, or thrombolysis. If necessary, we can also interrupt abnormal vessels with targeted embolization. As certified vascular radiologists, we also know when CTA or MRA is more appropriate and will interpret those exams as well.

Dialysis access and related intervention
Placement of tunneled hemodialysis catheters and revision/thrombolysis of poorly functioning surgically placed AV fistulas and grafts.

Endovenous laser ablation of varicose veins
Placement of thin laser fiber in varicose veins for non-surgical treatment of venous insufficiency.

IVC filters
Metallic filters placed in the inferior vena cava to prevent migration of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) to the lungs (PE). We offer placement of temporary (optional) IVC filters and will remove them when appropriate.

Vascular access
Placement and management of venous access devices including PICC lines, Hickman catheters and Port-a-caths.

Radiofrequency ablation (RF/RFA)
Localized destruction of tumors using heat energy.

Thrombolysis
Treatment aimed at dissolving blood clots (e.g., pulmonary emboli, leg vein thrombi, thrombosed hemodialysis accesses) with both pharmaceutical (TPA) and mechanical means.

TIPS
Placement of a Transjugular Intrahepatic Porto-systemic Shunt (TIPS) for management of select patients with critical end-stage liver disease and portal hypertension.

Uterine Fibroid Embolization
Blocking blood flow to uterine fibroid tumor by inserting particles into the uterine artery; reduces blood supply causing benign fibroid tumors to shrink and become asymptomatic.