What to expect

What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional radiology (IR), involves minimally invasive procedures which can often be used as an alternative to surgery. Doctors use medical imaging, including x-ray, CT, and ultrasound, to guide IR procedures. Most of these procedures can be performed through a single small needle or catheter.

Preparation
To prepare for an interventional radiology procedure, you’ll want to be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you are taking. You’ll also need to arrange for a ride home after the procedure.

Here’s what else you’ll need to do to prepare for IR:
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight before the procedure.
In the morning, take any blood pressure and heart medications with a sip of water unless instructed otherwise.

What to Expect
You will have an IV placed immediately prior to the procedure in order to receive any sedation, and other medications that may be needed during the procedure. You will most likely have the option to be sedated during your procedure.

After the Interventional Radiology Procedure
The length of time for each procedure varies. Once your procedure is complete, you’ll be moved into a recovery room and monitored for between 15 minutes and 3 hours depending on the type of procedure. Once you have finished your recovery time you will be discharged to be driven home by your companion.