“What's the difference between radiology and interventional radiology?”
Can you explain to me the difference between radiology and interventional radiology?
6 Answers
Radiology is using different imaging or pictures to diagnose a problem. Interventional radiology uses imaging to biopsy or treat a problem often without stitches through a tiny nick in the skin
Interventional radiologists use images to perform minimally invasive and potentially life saving procedures.
Radiology encompasses all of the imaging modalities used to diagnose disease such as x-ray, ultrasound, CT and MRI. These tests are completed by technologists and then interpreted by a Radiologist.
Interventional Radiology is when a Radiologist uses imaging to conduct a procedure. This is most commonly known by procedures completed through a vein or artery such as splenic artery embolization for trauma or placing a filter in the IVC to prevent blood closets from traveling to the heart and lungs.
Interventional Radiology is when a Radiologist uses imaging to conduct a procedure. This is most commonly known by procedures completed through a vein or artery such as splenic artery embolization for trauma or placing a filter in the IVC to prevent blood closets from traveling to the heart and lungs.
Radiology diagnoses medical conditions using some form of imaging (ex. X-rays, ultrasound, CT, MRI, Nuclear Medicine, etc.), whereas Interventional Radiology (IR) treats these conditions using imaging guidance. IR discovered angioplasty and stents to treat blockages in arteries (or veins, bile ducts, etc.) seen in peripheral vascular disease, certain types of high blood pressure, and stroke.
Radiologists sit and look at pictures while interventionists use image guidance to do procedures on patients.
Radiology is the interpretation of radiological imaging to make a medical diagnosis. Interventional radiology is the use of radiological imaging to guide a physician while performing minimally invasive procedures, thus it is more therapeutic than diagnostic.
Marc Hamet, MD, MBA
Marc Hamet, MD, MBA
