Interventional radiology (IR) refers to a specialized area of radiology that uses imaging methods such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy and CT to guide small needles, catheters and other small medical devices into the body through tiny incisions in the skin. Using these small instruments, IR doctors can target and treat disease directly at its source using minimally-invasive procedures that would otherwise require traditional surgery. These procedures include biopsies, draining fluids and opening narrowed blood vessels and passageways within the body. Procedures performed by our interventional radiologists are generally less risky, less traumatic to the child, require less recovery time and are less costly than traditional surgery. In addition, many of these procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis, eliminating or reducing hospital stays.

Safety

The risks associated with interventional radiography performed on children depend on several factors, including: the imaging technology used, the specific procedure to be done and whether the procedure requires the use of contrast agents. For a more specific description of risks, choose the test for which your child is scheduled from the links below:

• CT (computed tomography)
• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)
• Diagnostic x-ray/fluoroscopy
• Ultrasound

Our expert pediatric radiologists weigh all factors to determine the right modality and procedure for each child to ensure the best outcome for him or her. 

Some imaging techniques (ex: CT and fluoroscopy) involve the use of ionizing radiation from x-rays. To assure high-quality and rapid x-ray examinations using the lowest possible radiation doses for your child, Florida Hospital's pediatric imaging protocols comply with American College of Radiology guidelines and follow guidelines set forth by Image Gently, a coalition of health care organizations and imaging professionals dedicated to providing safe, high quality pediatric imaging nationwide.

What to Expect

Your doctor or our staff will provide specific instructions for your child's IR procedure. Preparations and your child's experience will differ vastly depending on his/her medical condition, the procedure being done and your doctor's choice of imaging modality.

Depending on your child's age and ability to remain motionless for the length of time required to complete the procedure, he/she may be sedated. If so, you may be given specific preparation instructions for what your child can eat or drink before the exam.  Sedation is not anesthesia, it is simply a medication taken orally or administered by intravenous (IV) injection to put the child into a deep sleep during the procedure. While asleep, he/she will be carefully monitored by a specially-credentialed sedation nurse. After the procedure, your child will be monitored by a nurse until fully awake.

The Results

Any images taken during the interventional procedure remain electronic files. Florida Hospital has the most sophisticated network, viewing stations and software for processing, transmitting, reviewing and storing these electronic images.

The pediatric interventional radiologist who performed the procedure will create a report of his/her findings that will be sent to your child's doctor. Your child's doctor will present the results and discuss them with you.