Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology is a medical specialty that combines imaging technology with minimally invasive surgical techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions in the least invasive way. At Torrance Memorial's Graziadio Imaging Center, our interventional radiology program has superior technology and high patient volume. In fact, we're among the busiest interventional radiology programs in our South Bay area.
Many interventional radiology procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art Flat Panel Interventional Suite. Here our expert interventional radiologists use advanced imaging technology that produces clearer images over a wider viewing area. The excellent image quality can improve patient outcomes. Patients are exposed to less radiation and receive a smaller dose of IV contrast material than is required than with older technology.
What Is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional radiology is sometimes referred to as "image-guided surgery."
Interventional radiologists use real-time imaging, obtained with X-rays, CT, MRI, ultrasound and/or other modalities, to help them in guiding instruments to where they are needed in the body. Most interventional radiology procedures involve the insertion of catheters (long thin tubes equipped with cameras, needles, surgical instruments or medical devices) into the body through small incisions or (sometimes) through other openings in the body. Patients benefit greatly when doctors can diagnose and treat medical conditions without performing surgery; there is less pain and bleeding, a lower risk of complications, faster recovery and an easier return to normal life.
What Is Interventional Radiology Used For?
Interventional radiology is now used to treat a wide array of medical conditions, including heart disease, cancer, gynecological conditions, orthopedic injuries and others. Interventional radiologists can perform biopsies, open and repair blocked arteries, place medical devices, destroy tumors and more.
A partial list of diagnostic and treatment procedures performed here at Torrance Memorial includes:
Chemotherapy & Central Venous Access
- Tunneled Peripheral Insertion of Central Venous Line
- Tunneled Dialysis Catheter Insertion
- Peripheral Insertion of Central Venous Line
- Chest-Port Insertion
Angiograms
- Cerebral Angiography (Stroke)
- Vascular Angiography
- Peripheral Angiography
- Angioplasty/Stenting
- Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt
- Percutaneous Insertion of the Inferior Venacava Filter
Embolization
Spine/Pain Management
- Kyphoplasty/Vertebroplasty
- Epidural Injection
- Discograms
Drainages
- Percutaneous Abscess Drainage
- Seroma Drainages
- Nephrostomy (Kidney)
- Biliary Drainage
Interventional Radiology for Cancer Treatment
Most cancer patients are treated with surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy, often in combination. Your doctor may also suggest one or more interventional radiology procedures, which can be used for diagnosis and staging of your cancer, insertion of medical devices (such as drains or PICC lines for chemotherapy) and to perform procedures that will keep you more comfortable.
Learn more about Interventional Radiology for Cancer Treatment.
