The physicians who do this are called interventional radiologists. They are trained in reading X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs and other imaging devices. They use these images to guide tiny medical instruments, like catheters, through blood vessels or skin.
Many conditions that once needed surgery can now be treated less invasively by interventional radiologists. Interventional radiology treatments involve less risk, less pain and have a quicker recovery compared to open surgery.
What to expect
Before your appointment
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your appointment. If you are late, we might need to reschedule.
Bring someone with you who can take you home and stay with you overnight after the procedure.
Make sure to complete the bloodwork that should be arranged at the time of booking. These could include complete blood count (CBC), prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR). Bloodwork needs to be completed within 60 days of the procedure.
Do not eat or drink anything after the midnight before your appointment. You may drink enough water to take any necessary medication.
If you take blood thinners such as warfarin, please talk to your referring physician. You might need to stop taking this medication five days before your appointment. Let our interventional radiologist or receptionist know if you take or have stopped taking blood thinners.
Bring a list of the medications you are currently taking.
Some procedures might need contrast dye, which is a material that changes the way an imaging device, like a CT scan or X-ray, sees parts of your body. It will be given through a vein (intravenously) or a catheter.
Contrast dye is usually safe, but there is a small risk of allergic reaction. If you know you are allergic to contrast dye, tell our receptionist when booking your appointment. We may recommend taking medication such as a steroids or antihistamines before the exam. You would need to get a prescription for the steroid from your physician.
At your appointment
How long your appointment will take depends on of the type of procedure you are having. Basic procedures take one to two hours. You should plan to stay up to four hours after the procedure for recovery.
Our team tries to stay on time, but your appointment may be delayed by unforeseen circumstances. It is a good idea to be prepared in case your appointment runs late.
When you arrive, check in at the Medical Imaging reception desk. You will then be taken to the Radiology Procedure Care Unit. If you wish to have a physician other than your referring physician copied on the report, please let our receptionist know before your test.
A nurse will go over your health history with you and put in an intravenous line (IV), if needed for your procedure.
Note that female patients aged 10 to 55 will be asked if there is any chance of pregnancy.
In most cases, you will change into a gown for the procedure.
After your appointment
A report will be sent to your physician within 10 days.
Please follow any instructions given to you at discharge.
What to bring
- Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
- A list of your current medications or supplements
- A bag to store your personal belongings
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing
- A support person to bring you home and stay with you
How to access our services
You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at medical imaging. Visit our referral criteria for more information.
