Interventional Radiology
About Interventional Radiology (IR)
Interventional Radiology (IR) is a subspecialty of radiology which provides image-guided diagnosis and treatment of disease. Although the range of procedures performed by interventional radiologists is broad, the unifying concept behind these procedures is the application of image guidance and minimally invasive techniques in order to minimize risk to the patient.
At Abercrombie Radiology our interventional procedures include:
- Facet Blocks
- Epidurals
- Steroid Injection
- Nerve Blocks
- Arthrography
- Breast Biopsies (Ultrasound directed)
Preparing for Your MRI/MRA
Breast Evaluation
Screening mammogram, if asymptomatic. If symptomatic, diagnostic mammograms and additional views and/or ultrasound, if deemed necessary.
Wear a two-piece outfit. Do not wear powders, creams, or deodorant from neck to waist.
Abdominal Ultrasound
Do not eat or drink anything (including water) after midnight the night before the examination.
DEXA
No Calcium Supplements a minimum of 24 hours prior to examination.
No Nuclear Medicine Studies 1 week prior to the exam.
No IV or Fluid Contrast within 48 hours of the exam.
Pelvis Ultrasound
Drink 40 ounces (1-1/4 quarts) of liquid 1 hour prior to the appointment time. A full bladder is necessary for the exam.
MRI (without Contrast)
No preparation is needed. You may eat or drink as desired. Take medications as needed.
MRI (with Contrast)
Do not eat anything 4 hours prior to the appointment time. You may have clear liquids up until appointment time. Take medications as needed.
Understand Your Interventional Radiology Results
Who interprets the results and how do I get them?
An Abercrombie radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will discuss the results with you.
Follow-up examinations may be necessary. Your doctor will explain the exact reason why another exam is requested. Sometimes a follow-up exam is done because a potential abnormality needs further evaluation with additional views or a special imaging technique. A follow-up examination may also be necessary so that any change in a known abnormality can be monitored over time. Follow-up examinations are sometimes the best way to see if treatment is working or if a finding is stable or changed over time.
