Interventional Imaging

A subspecialty of interventional radiology (IR) uses image-guided, minimally-invasive procedures to diagnose and treat various diseases. Interventional radiologists rely on angiography, mobile C-arm and fluoroscopy imaging systems to perform thrombolysis, embolization, biopsies, vascular and other minimally invasive procedures, which can reduce recovery time, risk and costs. Find more IR content on the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) page.

Cardiologist became paralyzed after wearing heavy aprons in the cath lab for decades—but he fought back
Dean J. Kereiakes, MD, was left paralyzed after battling severe orthopedic issues for his entire career. Back in the cath lab after a long recovery, he is now stressing the importance of workplace safety among interventional cardiologists.
Nighttime IR 'float' call coverage improves productivity and patient care
Known to increase fatigue and impact performance, traditional call models for nighttime IR coverage contribute to burnout and gaps in patient care.
Society of Interventional Radiology joins others in urging Medicare payment for high-cost disposables
The resolution urges the AMA to advocate for separate payment for certain services using supplies priced above $500, as well as those containing high-cost equipment.
Stroke care continues to evolve thanks to AI, cardiologists and more
Gregg Fonarow, MD, discussed the American Heart Association's stroke guidelines, the growing influence of AI and much more.
Philips trial to test feasibility of reducing radiation during coronary interventions
The Philips Azurion interventional imaging system was recently updated with new ultralow dose technology that is said to reduce X-ray exposure by up to 50% during coronary procedures.

Cardiology, radiology groups urge insurance provider to rethink imaging policy

SCAI and four other major healthcare organizations signed a joint letter in support of intravascular ultrasound.

Expedited g-tube placement cuts costs and LOS in head and neck cancer patients

There were no statistical differences in overall complication rates between the traditional and expedited groups, but there were marked savings and shorter hospital stays.

Going green in the cath lab makes economic sense

New research explored the potential savings of turning off angiography systems at night and on weekends.

Kumar Madassery, MD, director of peripheral vascular intervention and critical limb ischemia (CLI) program at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, explains techniques and tools used to restore blood flow to the foot to help foot wounds heal and prevent amputation. He is part of a campaign to raise awareness through the PAD Pulse Alliance.

Interventional techniques can help limit amputations among CLI patients

Kumar Madassery, MD, detailed some of the techniques and tools used to restore blood flow to the foot to help foot wounds heal and prevent amputation.

Video - Ken Rosenfield, MD, MGH, and William Gray, MD, Lankenau Heart, explain impact of new CMS coverage for carotid stenting.

How a big CMS update on carotid stenting could impact interventional cardiology

Ken Rosenfield, MD, of Massachusetts General Hospital, and William Gray, MD, of Lankenau Heart Institute, detailed the long-term impact of a key policy shift.

ACR updates requirements for on-site staff overseeing contrast administration

A clinician trained to manage reactions should be on-site at any imaging facilities doing contrast studies to maintain patient safety.

A diabetic foot ulcer that does not heal due to low blood supply from peripheral artery disease (PAD), and the before and after interventional angiograms of the patient's revascularization treatment. Images courtesy of Foluso Fakorede, MD

Experts hope improved PAD awareness can lead to fewer leg amputations

Nearly 80% of Black and Hispanic adults said they never discussed PAD with a doctor, which vascular experts say is a major problem.

Ismail El-Hamamsy, MD, PhD, has been named the new president of the Heart Valve Society

Mount Sinai surgeon named new president of Heart Valve Society

Ismail El-Hamamsy, MD, PhD, said he hopes to spend his time as HVS president focused on fostering collaborations and encouraging innovation.

Interventional Imaging

Cardiologist became paralyzed after wearing heavy aprons in the cath lab for decades—but he fought back

Nighttime IR 'float' call coverage improves productivity and patient care

Society of Interventional Radiology joins others in urging Medicare payment for high-cost disposables

Stroke care continues to evolve thanks to AI, cardiologists and more

Philips trial to test feasibility of reducing radiation during coronary interventions