Introduction to Interventional Oncology
Interventional oncology (IO) is a specialty that uses minimally invasive procedures performed with imaging guidance through small cuts in the skin to treat cancer. Interventional radiologist (specialists in CT, MRI and ultrasound interpretation, imaging guidance and performing minimally invasive procedures) use imaging tools like ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs to guide the treatments, so they can target tumours accurately and avoid damage to healthy tissue.
One type of IO treatment uses a thin needle with an active tip placed through the skin into the tumour. Microwave energy from the needle is used to destroy the cancer cells. Another type of treatment involves sending radiation or chemotherapy directly into the tumour’s blood supply.
Interventional oncology can be a good option for patients who cannot have traditional surgery or want to explore other treatment options.
Interventional oncology can help treat liver cancer, kidney cancer, and lung cancer, as well as cancer that has spread from other parts of the body (metastasised) to the liver, lungs and the bones. Your treatment plan will depend on your health and the type of cancer you have.
❕Always talk to your doctor or an interventional oncologist if you have any questions or concerns.
Interventional oncology treatments have many advantages:
🔹Minimally invasive: IO procedures usually use only small incisions, which leads to less pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
🔹Precise: Doctors use advanced imaging to accurately target tumours while protecting healthy tissue.
🔹Shorter hospital stay: Many IO treatments are done as outpatient procedures, so you can go home the same day or after a short recovery.
🔹Effective for certain cancers: IO works especially well for liver, kidney, lung, and some other types of cancer.
Even though IO procedures are minimally invasive, there are some risks, including:
🔸Infection at the needle site
🔸Bleeding or hematoma (a collection of blood under the skin)
🔸Injury to nearby organs or tissues
🔸Allergic reaction to contrast dye or medications
Your interventional oncologist will explain these risks before the procedure and take steps to keep you as safe as possible.
Interventional oncology is a good treatment option for many cancer patients. It is less invasive than surgery and can be used for people of all ages. For some patients, the treatment destroys tumours better than a surgery or is more effective than chemotherapy and with less complications and a shorter stay in the clinic or hospital. If you would like further information about interventional oncology treatments delivered by interventional radiologists please consult the patient information specific to your tumour type.
This page contains general medical information. The information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment