Interventional Radiology
Interventional Radiology (IR) refers to a range of techniques which rely on the use of image guidance (x-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI) to precisely target therapy. Most IR procedures are performed under local anaesthetic and start with passing a small needle through the skin; it is sometimes called pinhole surgery or image-guided surgery.
Further information with regards what Interventional Radiology is, and the procedures that can be performed, can be assessed on the British Society of Interventional Radiology website.
At Dorset County Hospital (DCH) most procedures are performed in a specially designed room similar to an operating theatre by Consultant Interventional Radiologists. During the procedure, they are assisted by radiology nurses, whose role is to monitor the patient and sometimes give intravenous sedation, or assist the radiologist with the procedure.
The majority of the procedures are performed under local anaesthetic, but sedation can be administered; if you feel that you would prefer to have some sedation for your procedure, please contact us beforehand to discuss this.
The nursing team also coordinate many other activities within the department, including biopsies and drainages, and the safe care of patients whilst in our department.
Patient information sheets for Interventional Procedures can be found on the BSIR website.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your intended procedure, please contact our nursing team who will be willing to help. We appreciate that undergoing a procedure can be daunting, and we aim to make the process as stress-free as possible.
Contact the department
Department of Radiology
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Williams Avenue, Dorchester
Dorset DT1 2JY
Telephone - IR Nursing Team
01305 255276
Interventional Radiology (IR) refers to a range of techniques which rely on the use of image guidance (x-ray, ultrasound, CT or MRI) to precisely target therapy. Most IR procedures are performed under local anaesthetic and start with passing a small needle through the skin; it is sometimes called pinhole surgery or image-guided surgery.
Further information with regards what Interventional Radiology is, and the procedures that can be performed, can be assessed on the British Society of Interventional Radiology website.
At Dorset County Hospital (DCH) most procedures are performed in a specially designed room similar to an operating theatre by Consultant Interventional Radiologists. During the procedure, they are assisted by radiology nurses, whose role is to monitor the patient and sometimes give intravenous sedation, or assist the radiologist with the procedure.
The majority of the procedures are performed under local anaesthetic, but sedation can be administered; if you feel that you would prefer to have some sedation for your procedure, please contact us beforehand to discuss this.
The nursing team also coordinate many other activities within the department, including biopsies and drainages, and the safe care of patients whilst in our department.
Patient information sheets for Interventional Procedures can be found on the BSIR website.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your intended procedure, please contact our nursing team who will be willing to help. We appreciate that undergoing a procedure can be daunting, and we aim to make the process as stress-free as possible.
Contact the department
Department of Radiology
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Williams Avenue, Dorchester
Dorset DT1 2JY
Telephone - IR Nursing Team
01305 255276