Invasive Radiology

Invasive radiology is a field of minimally invasive procedures performed under real-time imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy, ultrasound, and computed tomography. Through a small skin access point, the physician uses a thin catheter, needle, or other instrument to reach the affected area directly, significantly reducing the need for open surgery.

Advantages

• Small skin incision or point access instead of a large surgical cut
• Generally less pain and a shorter recovery period
• Usually a reduced length of hospital stay
• High precision thanks to imaging guidance
• Can often be performed under local or light sedation, reducing the need for general anesthesia

Where it is used

Invasive radiology techniques are applied to a wide range of conditions:

• Vascular interventions — restoring flow in narrowed or blocked vessels and controlling bleeding
• Image-guided targeted biopsies — precise sampling of tissue
• Drainage of fluid collections and abscesses
• Other diagnostic and therapeutic procedures requiring vascular access and catheter placement