Interventional radiology and fluoroscopy
Interventional radiology refers to minimally invasive, image-guided medical treatments. Procedures use real-time imaging techniques, including X-rays and ultrasound, to guide the operator.
Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging which shows a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, much like an X-ray movie.
More on what we do
Interventional radiology
Interventional radiology can be used as a quick and safe alternative to traditional surgery, resulting in better outcomes for patients and shorter stays in hospital.
Most interventional radiology treatments are minimally invasive alternatives to open and laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Interventional radiology can be used to remove blood clots, drain organs or stop severe bleeding caused by a variety of conditions. These include trauma injuries, internal haemorrhages and problems during childbirth.
Non-emergency treatments include procedures to destroy cancer tumours, open narrow or blocked arteries and treat painful uterine fibroids.
Fluroscopy
Fluoroscopy examinations are often done while a contrast dye moves through the part of the body being looked at.
A continuous X-ray beam is passed through the body part and sent to a video monitor so that the moving body part, such as joints or organs can be seen in detail.
Fluoroscopy examinations are performed by a radiologist (a doctor trained to review medical images) or a specialist radiographer. They are assisted by nursing staff and radiographers.
Fluoroscopy usually involves using a dye or fluid so that movement on screen can be detected. Examples of procedures include; injecting dye containing iodine into a joint space or asking the patient to drink barium solution which then coats the bowel so that it shows up on X-ray.
Some examinations take minutes, others can take a few hours.
Our team
Medical Imaging has a small team of nurses consisting of: a radiology sister, registered nurses, HCA (healthcare assistant) and an auxiliary, who have many years of experience and skills between them.
Their role within the department is to assist with all interventional procedures in all areas, including CT, MRI, ultrasound, fluoroscopy and interventional radiology. They also assist patients in recovery post procedure before sending them to wards or discharging them home.
Where to find us
RD&E Wonford, Barrack Rd, Exeter EX2 5DW
The Medical Imaging Department, Level 1 Area N.
Contact us
To contact the Interventional radiology team, call 01392 402336 (press option 1, then option 7)
To contact the Fluoroscopy team, call 01392 402580.
The teams are available Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm