Interventional Radiology is offered at both the Voorhees and Marlton Divisions of the Virtua-West Jersey Health System.

What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional Radiology permits the diagnosis and treatment of certain medical conditions using radiological guidance to direct tiny instruments throughout the vascular system and other areas of the body. These procedures are usually performed on a same-day basis under intravenous local anesthesia. These procedures are usually shorter, safer and less expensive than an equivalent operation.

Common Interventional Procedures
Biopsy: A very thin needle is used to obtain samples from tissue such as the liver and breast. This is usually done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Needle biopsy has proven to be very effective diagnostic tool.

Arteriogram: This is a procedure in which contrast (X-ray dye) is used to see blood vessels and diagnose various conditions, such as blockages.

Angioplasty and Stent Placement: Angioplasty uses tiny balloons to open blocked or narrowed vessels, thereby improving circulation. A stent is a small metal sleeve which can be used to keep a blood vessel open.

Thrombolysis: Using special drugs (clot-busters), the Interventional Radiologist can reopen blood vessels that have been blocked by blood clots.

Vascular Embolization: Often a life-saving procedure, tiny tubes called catheters are used to control bleeding from blood vessels. This process is also used to treat varicocele-a common cause of male infertility-without an operation.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS): A procedure in which a passage is created through the liver to stop severe bleeding or to control ascites in people with severe liver disease.

Fibroid Embolization. A minimally invasive procedure that blocks the arteries that supply blood to the fibroids. For more information about treating uterine fibroids please click here.

What can I expect?
In general, you will be admitted to our Short-Stay Procedure Unit. After changing, you will be taken to Radiology. Depending on the procedure, you may expect to spend from one half hour to several hours in Radiology. Afterward, you will be observed for several hours and in most cases sent home. Certain procedures may necessitate an overnight stay in the hospital. We will be able to tell you in advance if an overnight stay is likely.

How do I prepare for my procedure?
For vascular procedures, such as arteriograms, clear liquids after midnight, but no solid foods, is required. In most cases, we prefer that you keep taking your medications and bring them with you for the test so that we will know what they are. If you have any questions, either ask your doctor or call (856) 325-3017 so we can give you additional information.

Will I need lab studies?
For most procedures, certain laboratory studies will be required. Please check with your doctor or with our office to determine if any are needed in your case.

When will I get the results?
We can discuss the results of some procedures immediately upon their completion. Other studies may need further analysis and the results may not be available until the next day. Biopsies need special preparation by the pathologist and usually require two to three days. We will be happy to discuss the results of your study as soon as they are available, and the report will be provided to your doctor as soon as possible.

For more information, please visit the Vascular Care Center.