Instructions for Interventional Radiology Procedures

While there are a wide range of operations preformed under the title of interventional radiology, there are some general instructions that are common to many of them. Interventional radiology procedures involve using small surgical instruments, such as catheters, to preform delicate operations guided by the use of radiological imaging techniques. While some interventional radiology procedures are done only to examine parts of the body and diagnose illnesses, some are also done to treat conditions.

Preparations

• Because interventional radiology procedures do vary greatly depending on the complexity of the procedure and the type of imaging equipment used, the preparations for procedures can also vary greatly. The most important thing is to listen to what your doctor tells you and follow his or her instructions exactly.

  That being said, there are some preparations that are common to a large number of interventional radiology procedures.

  Prior to any interventional radiology procedure, you should inform your doctor of any and all medicines that you are currently taking including herbal supplements. Your doctor may instruct you to stop taking some of these medicines for a period before the procedure. You should also tell your doctor if you have any allergies to any anesthetic or any of the contrast materials used in the procedure.

  You may be asked to not eat or drink anything for a period before the procedure--usually from the previous midnight. It is important to follow this instruction, because the presence of food or drink in your body can improperly affect the procedure.

  You may also be asked to remove all of your clothing and jewelry and wear a hospital gown. If your procedure involves an MRI, it is very important to remove all metal from your body before the procedure, as failing to do so can result in serious injury.

Pregnancy

• A woman must inform the doctor if there is any chance she is pregnant. If you are pregnant, precautions may be necessary to protect your baby from any harm that could result from the procedure. Doing so is especially important if the procedure involves x-rays.

Post Procedure

• You should be prepared to have someone else take you home after the procedure, as you will not be able to drive because of the anesthetic.