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Imaging Methods
Common Interventional imaging methods include X-ray fluoroscopy, computed tomography (CT) ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
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Fluoroscopy
The visualization of internal organs can be done using a complementary technique called fluoroscopy. To aid visualization of blood vessels, contrast can be injected to perform angiogram to allow physicians to more clearly see images on a fluorescent screen. In vascular interventional radiology live fluoroscopy provides guidance for placement of various instruments such as angioplasty balloons in the appropriate areas under real time.
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Computed Tomography (CT)
A CT scan, sometimes referred to as a CAT scan, is a computer-assisted, X-ray imaging technique that allows radiologists to see detailed pictures of various parts of your body without surgery. While the patient lies on the examination table, small amounts of X-rays are projected through a specific region of the body. This series of pictures is processed through a computer, which converts the information from the scan into images for the radiologist to study. This technique can be used to access internal organs safely through the skin for a variety of procedures.
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Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging, also called ultrasound scanning or sonography, is a method of obtaining images from inside the human body through the use of high-frequency sound waves. The reflected sound wave echoes are recorded and displayed as a real-time visual image. No ionizing radiation (x-ray) is involved in ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound lets the physician see inside the body without using radiation, and is commonly used as the first method to evaluate for vascular blockages or aneurysms. It also provides a robust guidance tool for many vascular interventional radiology procedures such as biopsies, abscess drainages and tumor ablation. Routine use of ultrasound guidance for venous access procedures has resulted in a zero pnemothorax (dropped lung) rate in our practice for placement of mediports and other central venous catheters.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
In this non-invasive procedure, magnets and radio waves interact to produce a detailed picture of the soft tissue inside your body. The resulting images help diagnose abnormalities in the brain, spinal cord, head, chest, heart, abdomen, extremities and other body systems. This examination, which does not involve X-ray radiation, requires virtually no preparation and may help diagnose problems that are difficult or impossible to detect with other imaging methods.
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