The evolution of medical technology has revolutionised the way diseases are diagnosed and treated.
Among these advancements, Interventional Radiology (IR) stands out as a groundbreaking field that bridges imaging and minimally invasive treatments.
Dr. Amit Sahu, a renowned Neuro & Peripheral – Interventional Radiologist in Mumbai, specializes in providing advanced Interventional care for brain aneurysms, brain stroke, diabetic foot issues, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis & liver cancer among host of other vascular, non-vascular conditions from ‘Head to Toe’, offering innovative solutions to complex medical challenges.
What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional radiology is a specialized branch of medicine that uses imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and ultrasound to guide minimally invasive procedures.
Unlike traditional open surgery, IR offers targeted treatment with minimal pain and faster recovery times.
Interventional techniques provide a non-surgical, minimally invasive option of treating a lot of conditions that previously required open surgery.
Most of these procedures are performed under local anaesthesia.
Role of Interventional Radiology in Modern Medicine
Interventional radiology plays a critical role in diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical conditions.
By utilizing advanced imaging, an Interventional Radiologist can help plan precise interventions for a given condition that may reduce the risks associated with conventional surgeries.
From managing diabetes related vascular complications to treating cancers & from treating vascular problems in the brain, neck, spine, chest, abdominal organs, reproductive organs, arm & legs, Interventional Radiology has become an integral part of modern medicine offering treatment ‘Head to Toe’.
Nearly all major organs are amenable to some or other interventional treatment.
Most Common Interventional Radiology Procedures
Interventional radiology encompasses a wide array of procedures tailored to specific medical needs.
Here are some of the most common ones:
Procedures for Diabetic Foot Care
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- Angioplasty & Stenting: Enhances blood flow by widening narrowed or blocked arteries. These may even be coated with drugs to enhance their patency.
- Intravascular Lithotripsy: To help clear blockages that are very hard to treat by other means due to heavy calcium burden.
- Atherectomy: This allows shaving off the plaques that result in blockage.
Procedures for Varicose Veins
- Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA): A laser treatment to close the damaged veins.
- Sclerotherapy: Injects a solution to close smaller veins effectively.
- Radiofrequency, Microwave Ablation: Uses heat to treat large varicose veins, similar to laser ablation.
- VenaSeal: Uses glue like material to close damaged veins.
Procedures for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT):
- IVC Filter placement: To prevent clots in leg from travelling towards heart & lung which may be life threatening.
- DVT Thrombectomy, Catheter Thrombolysis: To rapidly clear the clots in the legs which may threaten the limb and to relieve the symptoms.
- Thrombectomy procedures to remove life threatening clots from the pulmonary arteries in the lungs.
Procedures for Liver Cancer Treatment
- Transarterial Chemoembolization (TACE): Delivers high dose chemotherapy directly to the tumor inside the liver. Thus minimizes side effects of chemotherapy to the rest of the body.
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) and Microwave Ablation (MWA): Destroys cancer cells using heat.
- Yttrium-90 (Y-90) Radioembolization (TARE , SIRT): Uses radioactive particles to target liver tumors.
Procedures for Bleeding Problems
Embolization: Stops bleeding by blocking blood flow to specific areas.
Depending on the location of the bleeding it may be performed for a lot of conditions like bleeding inside the brain, from nose, from mouth, in cough, vomit, stools, urine, from vagina, etc.
Using image guidance, a small catheter can be advanced from an injection in the groin artery to the site of bleeding and stop bleeding by blocking the bleeding vessel.
Procedures for Neurological / Brain,Spine related Problems
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- Brain Aneurysm : Procedures like Coiling, Stent or Balloon Assisted Coiling, Flow Diversion, Parent Artery Occlusion, Intrasaccular device placement to treat ruptured or unruptured anuerysms inside the brain & avoiding open brain surgery.
- Brain, Spine Arterio-Venous Malformations: These may be treated by embolization alone or combined with surgery & radiosurgery.
- Brain Stroke / Paralysis Treatment: Sudden blockage in blood flow to the brain may cause paralysis from ischemic stroke. If timely treated, these blockages can be removed by Mechanical Thrombectomy to prevent further brain injury and allow faster recovery. Carotid, Vertebral, Intracranial Stenting may be performed in very narrow blood vessels to improve blood flow to the brain & prevent a future stroke.
Procedure for Patients with Portal Hypertension:
- HVPG (Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient) : To determine the severity of portal hypertension & response to medications.
- TIPSS, DIPSS: To help reduce the portal pressure and associated complications like recurrent bleeding, ascites, pleural effusion, etc.
- BRTO, PARTO: To directly occlude the bleeding varices.
- IVC, Hepatic Vein Stenting: When these are occluded causing liver problems & portal hypertension.
Procedure for Patients with Infertility:
- In men: Varicocele treatment by non-surgical embolization procedure.
- In Women: Opening of blocked fallopian tubes by Fallopian tube Recanalization (FTR). Also treatment of uterine fibroids with excessive bleeding, pressure symptoms & infertility can be safely done by Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE).
Newer Treatments:
- For Prostate enlargement: In men with prostate hyperplasia (BPH) not getting relief by medications, Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) can be performed as an alternative to traditional surgeries.
- For Knee Arthritis or Osteoarthritis: In the early-intermediate stage of arthritis when pain is not getting controlled with medications and other means, a day care Interventional procedure called Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is useful for pain relief.
- Plantar Fasciitis: Persistent pain despite all medications for plantar fasciitis may be treated by embolization procedure.
- Thyroid problems: Ablation is a safe, effective procedure to treat small benign thyroid nodules. Similarly, Thyroid Artery Embolization (TAE) may be performed in patients with large goiters, nodules, Graves disease.
These are a few of the common procedures performed by Dr. Amit Sahu. A detailed description of procedures performed can be found here-https://dramitsahu.co.in/about-us
Benefits of Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology offers numerous advantages that make it a preferred choice for many patients:
- Minimally Invasive Approach: IR procedures involve small incisions, leading to reduced pain and faster recovery times. No cuts, stitches are needed.
- High Precision: Advanced imaging ensures accuracy, reducing risks and improving outcomes.
- Shorter Hospital Stays: Many procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day.
- Wide Applicability: Suitable for patients who may not be candidates or who do not want to undergo traditional surgery.
The Role of an Interventional Radiologist in Patient Care
Interventional radiologists are highly skilled specialists who combine clinical expertise with advanced imaging technology to provide personalized care.
Dr. Amit Sahu’s approach emphasizes patient-centered care, ensuring each treatment is tailored to individual needs.
His expertise and dedication make him one of the leading Interventional Radiologists in Mumbai.
Why Choose Dr. Amit Sahu for Interventional Radiology in Mumbai?
Dr. Amit Sahu is known for his expertise in treating a host of vascular conditions like brain aneurysm, brain stroke, diabetic foot complications, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis and liver cancer to name a few.
At his clinic in Mumbai, patients receive exceptional care in a compassionate environment.
With advanced technology and a focus on minimally invasive solutions, Dr. Sahu ensures the best possible outcomes for every patient.
Future of Interventional Radiology in Modern Medicine
The future of interventional radiology is bright, with emerging technologies like robotics and artificial intelligence further enhancing precision and efficiency.
As the scope of IR expands, it continues to play a pivotal role in preventive care, oncology, vascular health, and more.
Conclusion
Interventional radiology has transformed modern medicine by offering precise, effective, and minimally invasive treatment options.
Dr. Amit Sahu’s expertise in a host of interventional procedures from ‘Head to Toe’ ensures patients receive the best possible care.
A lot of advancements in the field of Interventional Radiology has allowed us to continuously add newer, reliable and safer procedures.
Do get in touch with Dr. Sahu to discuss if there are any non-invasive procedures to help your condition.
Schedule a consultation today to explore how interventional radiology can benefit you.
FAQs About Interventional Radiology
- What is interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology is a medical superspecialty that uses imaging to guide minimally invasive procedures for diagnosis and treatment. - Who is a good candidate for interventional radiology procedures?
Patients with vascular problems, a lot of non-vascular conditions like biliary, urinary, musculoskeletal issues and who wish to avoid surgical options may seek an Interventional Radiology opinion. - How safe are these procedures?
Interventional radiology procedures are generally safe, with lower risks and hospital stay compared to traditional surgeries. Most of the procedures are performed under local anesthesia and are day care. - How to consult an Interventional Radiologist in Mumbai?
You can book a consultation with Dr. Amit Sahu, a leading interventional radiologist in Mumbai, for expert care and guidance.