Interventional Radiology Cancer Treatment

A needle biopsy involves removing a tiny sample of tissue or fluid for testing. When a thin needle is used, it’s called a fine-needle aspiration biopsy. When a wide needle is used, it’s called a core biopsy. The material that’s removed is tested in a laboratory to find out if cancer cells are present.

Tumor ablation destroys (ablates) tumors and abnormal tissues. It can be done using hot or cold liquids, radiofrequency waves, microwaves and other techniques. Cryosurgery (also called cryoablation) uses cold liquid to freeze and destroy cancer cells.

Embolization shrinks tumors or cuts off their blood supply. One method involves inserting tiny beads into blood vessels that feed cancer, blocking the vessels and suffocating tumors. Beads can also be injected directly into tumors to deliver chemotherapy (chemoembolization) or radioactive material (radioembolization). Embolization is used to treat some liver and kidney cancers and many noncancerous conditions.

Kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty are used to treat spine fractures caused by tumors or other cancers. During vertebroplasty, bone cement is injected into a collapsed vertebra. During kyphoplasty, a small balloon is inserted and inflated in the vertebra, creating space for the bone cement. Kyphoplasty can be combined with radiofrequency ablation to heat and destroy spinal tumors while reinforcing vertebrae.

Paracentesis is used to treat a cancer complication called ascites. The condition occurs when fluid builds up in the stomach, causing abdominal swelling. During paracentesis, a needle is used to drain and collect the excess fluid. This helps reduce pain, improve kidney function and relieve shortness of breath.

Venous-access procedures involve placing tubes under the skin, such as ports, PICC lines (peripherally inserted central catheter lines) and catheters. This allows easy access to your veins to draw blood or give treatments. Venous-access procedures also help reduce the number of needle sticks required throughout cancer treatment.

Sometimes tumors grow so large that they block the flow of urine or bile, causing fluid to build up. These blockages can cause pain, infection or even organ failure. Catheters can be used to drain excess fluid or abscesses. Devices like balloons and stents may also be used to expand vessels and keep them open.
 

It’s a comfort to know Mercy’s experts are by your side on your cancer journey. We’ll provide the expertise and support you need to manage your condition and enjoy a better quality of life.