Oncology Treatment at IntelliRad

Tumor ablation (liver, kidney, lung)

For certain cancers of the liver, kidneys, and lungs, a minimally invasive procedure called tumor ablation may be used to treat tumors. During the procedure, an interventional radiologist uses imaging guidance to thread a catheter directly into a tumor. The tumor cells are then shrunk or destroyed using either extreme heat or extreme cold.

Chemoembolization and palliative treatment

In palliative treatment for liver cancer, chemoembolization is performed by an interventional radiologist using imaging guidance. During the procedure, three chemotherapy drugs are injected into the artery that supplies blood directly to the tumor. The advantage of this procedure is that it is highly targeted, reducing the effect of the chemotherapy drugs on healthy areas of the liver.

Y-90 radioembolization

Y-90 radioembolization is a relatively new and safe method for treating liver cancer. This procedure uses a combination of embolization and radiation therapy. Performed by an interventional radiologist, this procedure involves the injection of tiny glass or resin beads containing the radioactive isotope yttrium 90 (Y-90). The beads both block the flow of blood to the tumor and deliver highly targeted radiation, minimizing the effects of the radiation on other, healthy areas of the liver. IntelliRad is one of the few physician groups in south Florida that has physicians who are authorized to perform Y-90 radioembolization procedures. 

What are Biopsies and Drainages?

When a biopsy (tissue sample) is required for a diagnosis, an interventional radiologist uses CT, fluoroscopy, or ultrasound imaging to guide the biopsy needle precisely to the targeted area within the body. In cases of fluid buildup within the body, the interventional radiologist uses imaging to guide a thin tube (catheter) to the site of the fluid so that the fluid can be drained from the body.