Minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures are revolutionizing patient care with dramatically shorter recovery times and reduced pain compared to traditional surgery.

Our Interventional Radiology team at Tanner Health specializes in these advanced medical techniques that provide effective treatment with minimal disruption to your daily life.

What is interventional radiology? Minimally invasive alternatives to surgery

Interventional radiology (IR) uses advanced medical imaging technology, such as ultrasound, CT scans and MRI X-rays, to guide tiny instruments through blood vessels and organs. These procedures require only pinhole-sized incisions instead of the large surgical cuts needed for conventional operations.

With real-time imaging guidance, we navigate with precision accuracy to treat conditions that once required major surgery. This interventional approach transforms the patient experience from lengthy hospital stays to same-day procedures.

Reduced recovery time: Return to normal activities faster

The dramatic reduction in recovery time represents the most significant advantage of interventional radiology procedures:

• Hours vs. days of hospitalization: Most IR patients go home the same day, while traditional surgery often requires multiple nights in the hospital.

• Days vs. weeks of recovery: Patients typically resume normal activities within days rather than the weeks needed after conventional surgery.

• Minimal workplace absence: Many patients return to work in a fraction of the time required after traditional surgery.

For example, uterine fibroid embolization patients typically resume normal activities within 7 to10 days, compared to 4 to 6 weeks after surgical hysterectomy — reducing recovery time by up to 75%.

Minimally invasive procedures mean less pain

Interventional radiology significantly reduces post-procedure discomfort:

• Minimal tissue damage: Tiny access points cause substantially less trauma than large incisions.

• Targeted treatment: We address only the affected area, preserving healthy surrounding tissue.

• Reduced pain medication: Many patients manage discomfort with only over-the-counter medications.

Additional benefits of interventional radiology treatments

Beyond faster recovery, interventional procedures offer numerous advantages:

• Lower infection risk: Smaller incisions reduce infection rates compared to traditional surgery.

• Virtually no scarring: Access points often become nearly invisible after healing.

• Local vs. general anesthesia: Many procedures use only local anesthesia, eliminating risks associated with general anesthesia.

• Cost-effective care: Shorter hospital stays and fewer complications typically reduce overall healthcare costs.

Advanced interventional radiology procedures at Tanner Health

Our comprehensive interventional radiology services include:

• Vascular interventions: Angioplasty, stenting embolization for blood vessel disorders

• Cancer treatments: Targeted tumor ablation and chemoembolization

• Pain management: Nerve blocks, vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty for spinal fractures

• Women's health: Uterine fibroid embolization and fertility-enhancing procedures

• Men's health: Prostate artery embolization for enlarged prostate treatment

Experience the future of medicine today

As medical imaging and interventional technology continue to advance, we're implementing innovative techniques that deliver excellent outcomes with minimal patient impact. The days of "bigger incisions make better surgeons" are behind us. Today's excellence is measured by precision, effectiveness and reduced patient burden.

Ask your doctor about minimally invasive interventional radiology alternatives if you're facing a potential surgical procedure. Not all conditions qualify for these techniques, but many patients are surprised to learn about their options.