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CancerProcedures performed by VIA Interventional Radiologists are being increasingly used in the care of patients with cancer. Our specially trained physicians use X-rays, ultrasound or other imaging techniques to guide small tubes called catheters and miniature tools directly to the site of the disease. Interventional radiology procedures for patients with cancer include new approaches for treatment, relieving symptoms and diagnosing cancer without surgical biopsy. Diagnosis:There are a number of tests that can help in the diagnosis of cancer, including blood tests, physical examination and a variety of imaging techniques. Many interventional radiology procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer can be performed on an outpatient basis or during a short hospital stay. In many cases, the procedures:
Computed tomography (CT) – sometimes called C AT scan – uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body, then uses computer processing of the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a painless diagnostic test that can give accurate and clear information on tumors and confirm the presence of Cancer. MRI lets your doctor see detailed pictures of the inside of your body. MRI does not use X-Rays. Instead, strong magnets and radio waves work together to form a sharp image. There is no X-Ray radiation and the magnets and radio waves are harmless. Image-Guided Biopsy Usually, a final cancer diagnosis cannot be made until a biopsy is performed. In a biopsy, a sample of tissue from the tumor or other abnormality is obtained and examined by a pathologist. Traditionally, biopsy has required open surgery. With interventional radiology techniques, however, tissue samples usually can be obtained without the need for open surgery. By examining the biopsy sample, pathologists and other experts also can determine what kind of cancer is present and whether it is likely to be fast or slow growing. This information is important in deciding the best type of treatment. Treatment Options:The decision made by a patient and physician about how best to treat a cancer depends on a number of factors, including the type of cancer, how advanced the disease is (sometimes referred to as the cancer "stage") other health problems that the patient may have and the preference of the patient. The most common treatments have traditionally been:
In some cases, the interventional radiologists of RANK can deliver cancer-fighting therapy directly to the site of the tumor. Using moving X-ray pictures to guide them, interventional radiologists insert miniature devices into blood vessels or other body parts through a small nick in the skin and guide them to the site of the cancer. Cancer-killing therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, heat and cold are then delivered to the tumor. Chemoembolization is a technique used for some patients with liver cancer or other types of cancer that have spread to the liver. The procedure is a way of delivering cancer treatment directly to a tumor through minimally-invasive means.
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