Interventional Radiology

What is Interventional Radiology?

Interventional Radiology utilizes x-ray guidance to perform a variety of vascular and non- vascular procedures to treat a wide range of diseases.  Instead of large incisions required for some surgeries, these procedures are performed through small incisions, allowing catheters, needles and other devices to be guided to the treatment site. This approach is called minimally invasive and offers less risk, less pain and less recovery time compared to open surgery.

Specialized Interventional Radiology Procedures

Clot Retrieval and Coil Embolization

In order to be ranked as a Level 1 Stroke facility, Boone Hospital has four radiologists who specialize in neurology available 24/7.  Neuroradiologists are able to treat acute strokes by using special devices to remove a clot in an artery of the brain. If the cause of the stroke is a ruptured aneurysm, a neuroradiologist can clip the aneurysm, or place metal coils into the aneurysm to prevent further rupture and bleeding.

Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency Ablation is a minimally-invasive technique that destroys cancer tumors. Bursts of radiofrequency energy are sent through a catheter directly to the tumor. The interventional radiologists at Boone Health perform this procedure as an alternative to surgery for liver, kidney, lung and bone cancer patients. For patients, this procedure can prolong life without enduring chemotherapy or major surgery.

Non-surgical Vertebroplasty

This procedure offers relief to patients suffering chronic pain from compression fractures in the spinal vertebrae. Many times these patients suffer from osteoporosis. The procedure involves injecting bone cement into the vertebrae to stabilize fractures, and results in significant pain relief. The interventional radiologists at Boone Health perform more vertebroplasty procedures than any other imaging program in mid-Missouri. For patients, this means avoiding serious surgery, and immediate pain relief. Most patients go back to normal activity the day after the procedure.