Interventional Radiology

What is Interventional Radiology?

Interventional Radiology is a sub-specialty of radiology in which minimally invasive procedures are performed using image guidance to diagnose and treat medical conditions. Board-certified interventional radiologists perform targeted treatments with reduced risk, less pain, and quicker recovery times. Today, many conditions which previously required surgery can now be treated by these image-guided procedures. The range of conditions that interventional radiologists treat continues to expand, but currently includes diseases impacting the blood vessels, certain types of cancers, diseases of the lymphatic system, women’s health conditions, dialysis interventions, venous access procedures, biopsies and more.

How are Treatments Performed?

Real-time imaging is used to guide the physician and the team. Procedures are performed with various small instruments such as needles, catheters and sheaths. The patient’s previous medical history and images are reviewed before the procedure by the physician who then uses fluoroscopy, CT or ultrasound to guide the procedure to increase the safety and reduce the risk to the patient.

Benefits of Interventional Radiology:

• Interventional radiology procedures are less invasive which can lead to lower risk for the patient.
• Treatments generally require smaller incisions and are often performed with sedation rather than general anesthesia.
• Patients often experience less pain and have quicker recovery times.
• Patients can often leave the same day as their procedure or only require a short hospital stay.

Penn Interventional Radiology at Chester County Hospital

As part of one of the largest interventional radiology programs in the country, Penn Interventional Radiology at Chester County Hospital is committed to offering patients personalized and compassionate care. Our care team consists of board-certified interventional radiologists, radiology technologists and registered nurses who have extensive and diverse expertise encompassing a broad spectrum of procedures.

To speak with an Interventional Radiologist, for additional information, or to schedule an appointment, please call 610-431-5030.