Step 1: Definition & Access
Cancer treatment involving minimally invasive procedures precisely guided by imaging (CT, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy) through a small skin puncture.
What is Interventional Oncology?
- Definition: A sub-specialty of oncology that uses image-guided (CT, ultrasound, X-ray) techniques to deliver targeted treatment through small skin punctures, avoiding major surgery.
- Primary Goal:To treat primary tumors (especially Liver, Kidney, Lung) and metastases, or to manage cancer-related complications with minimal invasion.
Key Procedures (Treatment)
- Tumor Ablation: Destroys small tumors using heat (Radiofrequency Ablation - RFA, Microwave Ablation - MWA) or cold (Cryoablation).
- Embolization: Blocks the blood flow to the tumor. This includes TACE (Chemoembolization) and TARE (Radioembolization) for liver tumors.
- Tumor Biopsy: Precision needle biopsy to confirm diagnosis, often for deep or difficult-to-reach tumors.
- Vascular Access: Placement of ports or PICC lines for long-term chemotherapy administration.
Palliative & Supportive Care
- Pain Management: Nerve blocks or targeted pain relief procedures guided by imaging.
- Fluid Drainage: Draining of fluid buildup (Ascites or Pleural Effusions) caused by cancer or treatment.
- Stent Placement: Relieving blockages in bile ducts or urinary tracts caused by tumor compression.
Benefits of Interventional Oncology
- Minimally Invasive: Smaller incisions, leading to less pain and reduced scarring.
- Faster Recovery: Patients often have shorter hospital stays (or are treated as outpatients) and recover quicker than from surgery.
- Precision: Real-time imaging ensures high accuracy in targeting the tumor while preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
- Alternative for Complex Cases: Provides treatment options for patients who are not candidates for major surgery due to poor health or complex tumor location.