Interventional Radiology

INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY

Interventional radiology (IR) is a specialized field in which trained radiologists use image guidance such as x-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to deliver precise, targeted treatments to various diseases and conditions that would have previously required surgery.

IR treatments are generally less costly and invasive, and easier to recover from than open and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery. They are a well-accepted choice for treating conditions such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer, uterine fibroids, varicose veins 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 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, during and after treatment to provide patient education, assessment, intra-procedural sedation monitoring, as well as post-procedure followup and care.

IMI offers a wide range of IR procedures including:

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, x-ray, CT or MRI can be used to determine exactly 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 or sacroiliac (SI) joint. Using ultrasound, fluoroscopy (live x-ray) or CT for guidance, the radiologist will place a small needle into the affected joint. In some cases, he or she will then inject a small amount of contrast material to confirm that the needle is within the joint. Once placement is confirmed, the radiologist will inject the steroid 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. He or she will then use fluoroscopy (live x-ray) to view in real-time (and possibly take permanent images of) the passage of contrast material within the subarachnoid space as it flows around the spinal cord and nerve roots. In most cases, the myelogram is followed by a CT scan to better define the anatomy and any abnormalities.

To learn more about interventional radiology, visit https://www.sirweb.org/patient-center/

INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY CLINIC AT SAINT ALPHONSUS

Interventional Radiology is a subspecialty in which both vascular and nonvascular diseases are treated by board-certified interventional radiologists who specialize in minimally invasive, targeted treatments. Each interventional radiologist is specially trained in medical imaging as well as image guidance procedures. They offer in-depth knowledge of the least invasive treatments available, along with diagnostic and clinical experience across all specialties. Most procedures are performed with local and intravenous sedation, using image guidance that can include x-ray, fluoroscopy, ultrasound, MRI, and CT.

CONTACT US

Appointments can be made by calling the clinic at (208) 367-4786.

LOCATIONS

SAINT ALPHONSUS BOISE
1055 Curtis Rd.
Boise, ID 83706

SAINT ALPHONSUS NAMPA

4300 E. Flamingo Way, Ste. 200
Nampa, ID 83687

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