INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY
What is Vascular and Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology (IR) is a medical specialty of radiology that utilizes radiologic imaging to diagnose and perform medical procedures. IR is a result of continued medical advancements in imaging and procedural equipment. Some of the radiological imaging tools used include x-ray fluoroscopy, computed tomography(CT), ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging(MRI).
At Push Pounds Sports Medicine, IR diagnosis and treatment are performed by extensively trained, certified, and experienced Interventional Radiologists. Our IR specialists are well-versed in interpreting imaging as well as manipulating needles and catheters through the blood vessels and organs to alleviate specific symptoms or treat various conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system.
Though interventional radiology in Toronto, Push Pounds Sports Medicine provides minimally invasive procedures to athletes and other individuals seeking safer and efficient treatments with minimal downtime.
Contact us today to consult with our interventional radiologists or to book your appointment for a thorough assessment.
Benefits of Interventional Radiology
Minimally invasive
Interventional radiology treatments are also referred to as pinhole procedures, as they utilize small incisions on the skin near the target area. From this incision, the IR specialist can reach the affected areas of your body and perform the necessary treatments. Compared to traditional open procedures and laparoscopic surgery, interventional radiology is the least invasive and safest way to treat an array of conditions.
Low Risk
Compared to open surgery, IR has a lower risk of infection, blood loss, and other complications associated with traditional surgery. Since IR procedures are precisely guided through imaging, there is a lower chance of causing damage to healthy organs around the target area. IR treatments are mostly performed using local anesthesia and/or mild sedation. This eliminates the need for high-risk general anesthesia, making the procedures safer.
Faster Recovery
Open surgeries have a longer recovery time as they are more invasive, and they leave patients with stitches and staples. On the other hand, interventional radiology has a faster recovery time. This is because the procedure uses pinholes, thin needles, and catheters to target only the affected part of the body; small incisions result in faster recovery time.
Less Pain
IR procedures are performed using small incisions, and local anesthesia is applied. This presents minimal discomfort during and after the procedure. Also, the incisions do not require stitches or staples, which are necessary following traditional surgery, and are fairly uncomfortable.
Increased Effectiveness
Ultrasound, CT, MRI, and other medical imaging equipment utilized provide an accurate diagnosis. They also make treatment more precise and effective as radiologists are guided throughout the procedure by advanced imaging equipment.
Risks of Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology has minimal risks involved because it is minimally invasive and precisely guided by cutting-edge imaging devices. Compared to open surgeries, interventional radiology has considerably lower risks, while achieving the same goals.
Some of the risks posed by IR include bleeding, minimal swelling, and infection. At Push Pounds Sports Medicine, these risks are minimized by the use of experienced and qualified radiologists.
For more information about interventional radiology in Toronto or to book an appointment with our radiologists, please contact Push Pounds Sports Medicine.