Interventional radiology

• Haemodynamics, angiography and neurointerventional procedures. Haemodynamics facilitates a structural and operational analysis of the heart, focusing on the dynamics and mechanical aspects of blood movement through the circulatory system. This study is performed by inserting thin catheters through the arteries (cardiac catheterisation) and allows for accurate assessment of the condition of the blood vessels throughout the body and heart. It also allows for intervention through the placement of meshes or stents (angioplasty) to restore or improve cardiac blood flow. Catheterisation procedures enable accurate diagnosis and treatment of various diseases, not only of cardiac origin, but also of vascular origin (angiography). Angiography is a method for studying the vascular network (arteries and veins) through either invasive or non-invasive methods, determined by the particular technique utilised. Likewise, in the case of vascular pathology, it can be repaired by placing endoprostheses (stents) and intra-arterial inflatable balloons (angioplasties), all without the need for surgery or blood transfusions.
• FNA (Fine-Needle Aspiration) There are other procedures that minimise blood loss and have led to significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. These are referred to as FNA (Fine-Needle Aspiration) procedures. It is a percutaneous procedure performed through the skin, in which a fine needle is used to perform biopsies, drain abscesses, etc., guided by various radiological techniques: CT scan, mammography, ultrasound. It is used for procedures on the chest, abdomen and bones.
• Percutaneous ablation. Percutaneous ablation of tumours is another innovative technique that can be performed within the Bloodless Medicine and Surgery Unit. It consists of a technique in which primary or metastatic tumours in the liver, lung or kidney are ‘burned’. Using CT-guidance, a thin probe or needle is inserted into the core of the tumour, destroying it using radiofrequency or microwaves.

Your doctor will advise you on the best option depending on the condition or planned procedure.