INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY
Interventional radiology (IR) is a specialized field in which fellowship-trained neuroradiologists use image guidance such as x-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to deliver precise, targeted treatments for various diseases and conditions that would have previously required surgery. Interventional radiology is a minimally invasive diagnosis and treatment option for patients experiencing pain in their back or spine.
IR treatments are generally less costly and invasive and easier to recover from than surgery. They are a well-accepted choice for treating conditions such as degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, herniated disc, nerve impingement, and many other medical issues.
Intermountain Medical Imaging provides a full range of outpatient IR procedures—all conducted by sub-specialized, board-certified radiologists using sophisticated digital equipment and incorporating board-certified radiologic technologists (ARRT) and full nursing support. Our nursing staff consists of registered nurses (RNs), licensed in the state of Idaho and certified by the Bureau of Labor Statistics and Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support. At IMI, RNs are on hand before and after treatment to provide patient education, assessment, and post-procedure follow–up care.
Neuro procedures include Cervical and lumbar epidurals, lumbar transforaminal nerve root blocks, SI joint injections, Lumbar punctures, epidural blood patches, and myelograms.
Orthopedic procedures include Therapeutic joint injection, HSG, arthrograms, and joint aspirations.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
Hysterosalpingography, also called uterosalpingography, is an x-ray study of a woman’s uterus and fallopian tubes that uses fluoroscopy (live x-ray) and a contrast material. Hysterosalpingography is primarily used to examine women who have difficulty becoming pregnant. During a hysterosalpingogram, the uterus and fallopian tubes are filled with a water-soluble contrast material, while the radiologist uses fluoroscopy (live x-ray) to assess their anatomy and function. In this manner, the radiologist can evaluate the shape and structure of the uterus, the openness of the fallopian tubes, and any scarring within the uterine or peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.
Biopsy & Aspiration
A biopsy is the removal of tissue—from any part of the body—so that it may be examined for disease. In a fine needle aspiration, a small gauge needle is used to withdraw fluid or clusters of cells. During biopsies and aspirations, imaging guidance, such as ultrasound or x-ray, can be used to determine precisely where to place the needle in order to most safely and accurately perform the procedure.
Joint Injections
A therapeutic joint injection is a pain management procedure that involves injecting a steroid medication and or anesthetic into a hip, knee, elbow, wrist, foot, hand, finger, toe, or sacroiliac (SI) joint. Using ultrasound fluoroscopy (live x-ray) for guidance, the radiologist will place a small needle into the affected joint. In some cases, they will then inject a small amount of contrast material to confirm that the needle is within the joint. Once the placement is confirmed, the radiologist will inject the steroid and/or anesthetic into the joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Myelography
Myelography provides a detailed image of the spinal cord, nerve roots, subarachnoid space, and spinal column to document abnormalities involving or affecting these structures. During a myelogram, the radiologist will inject contrast material into the spinal sac through a small needle inserted into the lower back. They will then use fluoroscopy (live x-ray) to view in real-time the passage of contrast material within the subarachnoid space as it flows around the spinal cord and nerve roots. A myelogram is followed by a CT scan to better define the anatomy and any abnormalities in the area of interest.
To learn more about interventional radiology, visit https://www.sirweb.org/patient-center/
WHAT TO EXPECT
Preparation depends on the type of procedure being performed. Our IMI schedulers will explain these preparations at the time of scheduling.
Women should always inform their physician and X-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they could be pregnant.
Once your exam is complete, there may be restrictions placed upon you depending on the procedure that was performed. IMI will share these with you prior to your exam and provide you with a copy of discharge instructions.
A radiologist will examine your images, and the report will be sent to your healthcare provider within 24-48 hours of your examination. Your healthcare provider can review those results with you.
IMI also provides a patient portal where you can access your images and reports. Reports will be available in the patient portal as soon as they have been read by the radiologist (generally within 48 business hours).
Sign up here.
