Patient Resources

IR is a medical specialty using imaging (ultrasound, X-ray, CT) to guide tiny instruments intothe body for diagnosis or treatment.

Benefits:

•  Minimally invasive (tiny punctures instead of large incisions)
• Outpatient procedures for many conditions
• Reduced pain, bleeding, and recovery time
• Comparable or superior outcomes to traditional surgery

CANDIDATES INCLUDE PATIENT WITH:

• Vascular conditions (PAD, aneurysms, varicose veins)
• Organ-specific disorders (fibroids, spleen, prostate, kidney)
• Chronic pain or joint issues
• Tumor management (e.g., chemoembolization, ablation in select cases)
  IR is suitable for patients who want less invasive, outpatient-focused care or have surgical risk factors.

• Decades of research showlow complication rates (<2–5%)for most procedures
• Image guidance allows precise treatment with minimal risk to surrounding organs
• Sedation or local anesthesia is often sufficient, reducing anesthesia-related risks

• Patients receive IV medications to relax, remain awake but comfortable
• Avoids general anesthesia and breathing tubes
• Recovery is faster (usually within 1–2 hours)
• Widely used for procedures such as UFE, PAE, venous ablation, and embolizations
• Very safe, even in patients with heart or lung disease

• Smaller or no incision→less scarring and pain
• Lower infection and bleeding risk
• Faster return to work and daily activity (1–7 days vs. 2–6 weeks for surgery)
• Can be repeated if needed without major surgical intervention
• Preserves organ function (e.g., partial spleen preservation, uterus preservation)

• Local anesthesia plus sedation minimizes discomfort
• Some procedures may causepressure or cramping, usually brief
• Pain afterward is generally mild and managed with over-the-counter medications

Yes. Conscious sedation temporarily affects reflexes, so a responsible adult must drive youhome.

• Most procedures:1–3 days for full activity, depending on complexity
• Minor soreness, bruising, or fatigue may occur
• No major wound care is required for pinhole procedures

• Most risks are minor: bruising, temporary swelling, soreness at puncture site
• Rare complications: infection, bleeding, unintended vessel blockage
• Risk is typicallymuch lower than open surgery

• Light activity: same day for many procedures
• Normal work: 1–3 days
• Strenuous activity: 3–7 days depending on procedure
• Sedation or anesthesia may require a responsible adult to drive you home

• Individualized based on imaging, anatomy, symptoms, and health conditions
• Goals: reduce risk, shorten recovery, preserve organ function
• Our Physicians can spend extra time reviewing options and discussing minimallyinvasive alternatives

Yes. Many procedures such as embolizations, vein ablations, and injections can berepeated safely if symptoms recur.

• Most procedures for vascular, oncologic, or organ-specificconditions are covered
• Coverage varies by procedure, indication, and insurance plan
• Pre-authorization is often required

• Personalized attention from experienced physicians
• Extra time for patient questions, treatment planning, and follow-up
• Minimally invasive outpatient care with faster recovery
• Focused expertise in vascular, oncologic, and men’s/women’s health conditions