Interventional radiology
What is
interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology is a division of radiology in which minimally invasive procedures
are performed using image guidance. A few of the procedures we do
include venous access, angiograms (both body and neuro) and treatment
(such as esophageal dilations, angioplasty, and stent placements). Fluoroscopy
(live x-ray) is used to direct these procedures, which are usually done with
needles or other instruments. The images provide road maps that allow the
interventional radiologist to guide these instruments through the body to the
areas of interest.
Before
an interventional procedure
Before coming to the
hospital, read this explanation and explain to your child what will happen
during the test. For young children, use simple words and explain only shortly
before the test.
-
If your child is under 4 years of
age, he may have to sedated. Follow sedation instructions that the nurse or
doctor give you, but
these
are the general ones you can refer to now.
- If sedation is necessary, a nurse or doctor will
explain it to you. A parent or legal guardian needs to be present to sign an
informed consent for sedation.
- If your child is an infant, it is helpful to bring
along a bottle of formula or juice with you for after the test. It is also
recommended that you bring a pacifier, blanket or special toy to help calm
your baby.
- For older children, it is helpful to bring a book or toy to play with
while waiting. It is helpful to have another caregiver for your child's
siblings. For young children or babies, it is a good idea to bring a
stroller.
During an
interventional radiology exam
Our exams are performed in a sterile environment. Because
of this, you will not be allowed into the actual exam room. Our nurses
and technologists
will help your child
into the room. Older children may have to change into hospital scrubs. The body
part to be examined is cleaned and then prepped with sterile towels in order to
prevent infection.
Exams can take
anywhere from 15 minutes to several hours. There is a waiting room nearby, and we
will update you during longer procedures.
In some cases,
the radiologists require the use of something called "contrast" in order to
better see organs and/or blood vessels.
After an
interventional radiology exam
Depending on the type of
procedure, your child may or may not be able to return to regular daily
activities and meals. The interventional radiologist or nurse practioner will
cover this in greater detail with you when they get your consent for the
procedure.
If your child had sedation medicine, he
will be monitored by a nurse in the recovery room until he wakes. This
amount of time is often unpredictable depending on the amount of sedation
medicine given. It is common for children to sleep 2 hours after the medicine is
given.
A nurse will give you
special instructions. Results of the test may be available to your child's
doctor within 24 hours.
Technology/Scanners
used:
- Philips bi-plane interventional suite
- Siemens single plane interventional suite