Interventional Radiology (IVR)

The Diagnostic Imaging Department is pleased to offer interventional radiology services to our clients close to home in a state of the art, warm and welcoming environment. The IVR procedures performed at LACGH include: joint injection and aspirations, peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC), thoracentesis and paracentesis.

What is Interventional Radiology?

IVR is a program within the Diagnostic Imaging department where the radiologist uses fluoroscopy (x-ray) or ultrasound imaging to guide them while they perform these minimally invasive procedures.

For some patients an injection of steroids into their joint space can give them pain relief so that they can start moving again. With the use of the C-Arm unit, the radiologist can isolate the joint space and accurately inject a medication into the space to help with inflammation and pain relief.

For patients that need to have long term intravenous therapy, frequent blood sampling or have poor vascular access, a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) can be inserted into their vein in their upper arm. This PICC can stay in place and be used for many months for chemotherapy, intravenous nutrition or long term antibiotic therapy. The patients can be treated on an outpatient basis.

Many of our cancer patients develop large collections of fluid in their abdomen or their lungs that need to be drained. We will be able to provide relief for these patients as they need it by placing a temporary catheter to drain this fluid.

I have an appointment – where do I go?

This service is located in the Diagnostic Imaging Department on the main level of the hospital and can be accessed through the front parking lot entrance. If you are booked for a joint or PICC procedure you will check-in directly at the Diagnostic Imaging Reception Desk. If you are booked for a thoracentesis or paracentesis procedure then you will check in at the outpatient clinic reception desk located to the left of the emergency department.