By Dr Aakash Patel
Consultant Interventional Radiologist
Dec 09, 2025
Interventional radiology (IR) is revolutionising the way many diseases are diagnosed and treated. By combining medical imaging with minimally invasive techniques, IR offers faster recovery and reduced pain, making it a key component of the future of modern healthcare.
Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or curious learner, here are the most common questions people ask about interventional radiology.
Interventional Radiology is a super-speciality that uses advanced imaging techniques, such as CT scan, ultrasound, X-rays, and fluoroscopy, to guide minimally invasive procedures inside the body. These treatments are performed through tiny incisions — often smaller than a pencil tip.
IR is used to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions, including
Compared to traditional surgery, IR offers
Most IR procedures are performed under local anaesthesia or mild sedation. Patients typically experience only mild discomfort and remain awake during the procedure.
Recovery from minimally invasive procedures is usually much quicker than from open surgery. Many patients can
Yes. Because incisions are tiny, the chances of infection, bleeding, and complications are significantly lower than in traditional surgery. All procedures are performed by skilled and experienced interventional radiologists who specialise in image-guided treatments.
Highly specialised doctors known as interventional radiologists — experts in imaging, catheters, guidewires, and targeted therapies — perform these procedures with high precision.
Tiny puncture sites heal quickly and leave minimal to no visible scars, making IR highly patient-friendly.
Some highly successful treatments include
Absolutely! IR plays a crucial role in oncology through
It improves outcomes and can be used along with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. For liver cancers, IR can offer TACE (Transarterial Chemoembolization) treatment, which is a targeted form of chemotherapy where the maximum dose of chemotherapy reaches the tumour with minimal side effects to the rest of the liver and other body organs, compared to routine chemotherapy.
Many IR procedures are day-care treatments. Some may require short hospitalisation depending on the patient’s health condition.
Your doctor or an interventional radiologist will review
A personalised treatment plan is then created for the best results.
Interventional radiology is transforming healthcare by offering precise and patient-friendly solutions. It enables faster recovery and better outcomes, significantly improving the quality of life for patients who once required major surgery.
At KD Hospital, our state-of-the-art interventional radiology department is equipped with advanced imaging technology and staffed by experienced specialists. We provide a wide range of minimally invasive treatments — from cancer therapies and vascular procedures to fibroid and abscess management — ensuring safe, effective, and personalised care for every patient.
