Vascular and interventional radiography is a subspecialty of radiology in which minimally invasive procedures are performed using image guidance. Ultrasound and X-ray equipment is used to capture images to assist in the precise location or placement of instruments and medical devices for each procedure.
Most of the procedures are done on an outpatient basis and are performed through an incision in the skin that measures less than a quarter inch in diameter. This offers an alternative to the surgical treatment of many conditions and, in some cases, can eliminate the need for hospitalization.
In some cases, therapeutic intervention is performed with angioplasties and stent insertion (stretching of narrowed blood vessel), or embolization techniques to decrease or stop blood flow within a vessel. Insertion and maintenance of access lines for our oncology patients are also performed within our department.
The procedures are performed by a highly skilled and experienced interventional radiologist, with the assistance of medical radiation technologists and specially trained nurses.
What We Offer
- Non-cardiac Angiogram
- Balloon angioplasty/stenting
- Fistulogram
- Embolization
- Endovascular aneurysm repair or endovascular aortic repair (EVAR)
- Inferior vena cava(IVC) Filter Insertion
- Thrombolysis
- Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)
- Abscess drainage
- Drainage, including paracentesis, thoracentesis/chest tubes
- Feeding tubes
- Percutaneous nephrostomy
- Biliary intervention
- Biopsies
What to Expect at Your Procedure
Most of the procedures done in the suite have shorter recovery times, are less risky, and are done on an outpatient basis, but a few specific procedures require an overnight stay. A physician, usually a specialist who works closely with the radiologist, requests these examinations.
Additional Information
Patients undergoing interventional procedures (i.e. angiogram, nephrostomy, biopsy, etc) frequently are given medication that may make them drowsy. Patients will be discharged only to a responsible adult who can drive them home after the procedure/recovery period.
Post-procedure requirements vary depending on the procedure, many of which will affect your return to work date and/or any work related restrictions. You will be given clear after-care instructions from our radiologists, nurses and technologists who are happy to also answer any questions or address any concerns.
Many of the vascular/interventional radiology procedures will be performed after the patient receives some sedation and/or medications to control pain. A post-procedure recovery period is necessary to ensure patients are stable prior to being discharged.
Patient Preparation
- If you do not speak English, please arrange to have a translator present, otherwise your test may need to be re-scheduled.
- Ask your physician if there are any other specific preparations required for your procedure.
Where to Find Us
Birchmount Hospital
Main Floor
Centenary Hospital
Main Floor, Diagnostic Imaging
General Hospital
East Wing, First Floor
Contact Us
Tel: 416-431-8167
Fax: 416-431-8141