Purpose The ideal biopsy needle provides a diagnostic tissue sample at the lowest possible risk. Description Needles are usually characterised by their mechanism of action into aspiration and core biopsy…

Purpose Puncture needles are vital for getting from the skin to the target as a prelude to access with a guidewire, aspiration of fluid or placement of a drain. Not…

Outpatient clinics are an essential component of contemporary practice. Some interventional radiologists have held outpatient clinics for many years but for others, this will be a new experience. The functions…

Oh dear, we are still in the introductory section and already complications are rearing their ugly heads. One thing is certain, during a career in interventional radiology, there will be…

Pain control – forward planning Many interventional radiology procedures do not require any analgesia; some procedures are intrinsically painful, especially if they are prolonged, and others are unpredictably uncomfortable. The…

Sedation is used to relax patients during procedures but does not relieve or prevent pain. Hence, sedation is often used in combination with analgesia. Sedation is useful in patients undergoing…

Most vascular computed tomography (CT) and magnetic imaging resonance (MRI), the vast majority of angiographic procedures, and many nonvascular interventions rely on contrast media to reveal the anatomy. Contrast media…

Formal and clearly documented safety checks and briefings are mandatory and essential if you want to reduce predictable and preventable errors during procedures. It has been clearly demonstrated that safety…

Making the correct treatment plan This chapter focuses on steps you should take to minimize risk and prepare yourself and the patient for successful and safe procedures. You may be…