Need an intervention? We’ve got radiologists for that!
It’s safe to say that given the choice you’d prefer a procedure to be as minimally invasive as possible, right? That’s where interventional radiologists come in. They use fluoroscopy, CT scans, x-rays, MRIs and ultrasound to guide wires, catheters, needles and stents in a variety of procedures. On top of the extra education that physicians undergo to be radiologists, interventional radiologists complete an additional one to two years of training to obtain board-certification in this radiology sub-specialty.
Interventional exams are generally less costly and less traumatic than traditional surgery and patients are able to resume their normal activities sooner thanks to a faster recovery time. From the treatment of varicose veins to pain management, this special field of radiology has several modalities at their disposal to treat a wide range of health conditions.
Intermountain Medical Imaging provides a full range of diagnostic and outpatient interventional imaging studies with nursing support being an intricate part of patient care. IMI nurses are on hand to provide patient education, assessment, intra-procedural sedation monitoring and post-procedure follow–up and care as necessary. The IMI nursing staff consists of registered nurses all licensed in the state of Idaho and certified in BLS and ACLS.
PICC Line: A peripherally inserted central catheter or PICC Line is an alternative to an IV or regular central line for patients in need of prolonged antibiotic treatment, chemotherapy, TPN nutrition, or extended at-home care. Using ultrasound as a guide, the PICC line is inserted through a large vessel in the arm where it remains until the patient is no longer in need of it.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): Also known as uterosalpingography, a special x-ray known as a fluoroscope is used to examine a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes while using contrast material. It enables the radiologist to assess anatomy and function and is primarily used to diagnose fertility issues.
Biopsy & Aspiration: When a tissue sample is in need of examination to check for disease, the interventional radiologist is able to safely perform this procedure under the imaging guidance of ultrasound, x-ray, computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Whether for a biopsy or a fine needle aspiration to withdraw fluid or clusters of cells, these tools ensure that the correct samples are taken with the least amount of discomfort for the patient.
Joint Injections: If a patient is experiencing pain and discomfort in their joints, the interventional radiologist can inject a steroid medication and/or anesthetic directly into the affected area to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. By using ultrasound, fluoroscopy or a CT scan to guide them, they are able confirm that the needle is in the correct area of the joint before injecting the medication.
Spine and Pain Management: If you have been suffering from chronic pain, especially in your neck or back, we have many solutions available to make you comfortable enough to enjoy your daily activities. Nerve blocks, epidurals, vertebroplasty and facet joint injections are just some of the spine and pain management interventional treatments available to our patients.
These are just some of the interventional procedures offered to our patients. When it comes to your health, you can trust the specialty that pioneered today’s minimally invasive medical procedures. Make an appointment today to learn how our board-certified interventional radiologists can help improve your quality of life.
