Interventional Radiology (IR)

Interventional radiology involves minimally invasive, targeted treatments and the diagnosis of diseases. It treats a wide range of conditions non-surgically with imaging techniques that target the source of the disease. Interventional radiology treatments offer less risk, less pain and less recovery time compared to open surgery (www.sirweb.org/).

Appointment Information

Within one week of your procedure, you will receive a phone call from a nurse with specific instructions on the procedure and how to prepare, including any changes that need to be made to your regular medication schedule. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide 24 hours notice.

We ask that you call at least 3 days ahead if either of the following pertain to you so we may make the appropriate modifications to your treatment plan:

• If you believe you may be pregnant.
• If you have had a contrast allergy/reaction (i.e., hives, rash, itching, breathing difficulty) while undergoing a previous imaging study.

Instructions Prior to Your Procedure

• Blood Work: Must be drawn to check for bleeding issues and proper kidney function. Please have labs drawn prior to the day of your procedure to avoid delays which could result in rescheduling your appointment.

• Medications: Advise your physician of all medications you are taking, including herbal supplements. Your physician may advise you to stop taking aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and anticoagulants (blood thinners) for a specified period of time before your procedure.

Unless otherwise instructed, continue to take all of your usual medications on your regular schedule.

Diabetics: If you are diabetic, please check with your primary care physician for specific medication and other preparatory instructions.

What to Expect the Day of Your Procedure

• 6 hours prior to your procedure: You must NOT eat.  Medications may be taken with water. You may drink clear liquids up to 2 hours before your procedure.
• Please arrive on time. Allow extra time in your trip for weather, traffic and parking.
• Leave valuables at home.
• Bring your insurance card and photo ID.
• A parent/guardian should remain in the building when a child (under 19 years) is having an imaging procedure.
• All parents/guardians having an imaging study must be aware that there is no supervision available for children. Please do not have children accompany you to your appointment.

What to Expect After Your Procedure

• You are likely to receive sedation during your procedure. If so, you will not be allowed to drive for the remainder of the day. Please make arrangements for someone to drive you home after your procedure. If medical transportation or a taxicab is used, you must have someone accompany you home.
• You may not drive, work, or engage in important decisions (e.g., financial issues) for the rest of the day.
• You will be provided with post-procedure instructions.
• Your results will be sent to your referring physician within 2 business days. Please contact your physician.
• If you have a MyChart account, your results will be posted in 14 days.

Locations

Interventional radiology is performed at the following locations:

• F.F. Thompson Hospital
• Highland Hospital
• Noyes Memorial Hospital
• Strong Memorial Hospital