If you’ve been scheduled for an interventional radiology (IR) procedure, you may be wondering what the process looks like—and what you should expect before, during, and after treatment. IR procedures are minimally invasive, meaning they use tiny incisions, advanced imaging, and precise tools to treat vascular and organ conditions without major surgery.
At Aria Vascular, we believe that knowledge reduces anxiety. This guide walks you through every step so you feel informed, supported, and confident in your care.
What Is an Interventional Radiology Procedure?
Interventional radiology uses real-time imaging—such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy, or CT—to guide small medical instruments (catheters, wires, stents, needles) through the body to diagnose or treat disease.
Common IR procedures include:
- Angioplasty and stenting
- Embolization
- Ablation
- Thrombolysis or thrombectomy
- Dialysis access interventions
- Biopsies and catheter placements
These procedures are performed by board-certified interventional radiologists—experts in minimally invasive therapies.
Preparing for Your Interventional Radiology Procedure
Preparation is simple, and our team will guide you through each step.
1. Your Initial Consultation
You’ll meet with an Aria Vascular provider to:
- Review your medical history
- Go over current symptoms
- Evaluate imaging such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI
- Adjust medications (especially blood thinners)
2. Pre-Procedure Instructions
Patients may be instructed to:
- Avoid eating or drinking for several hours beforehand
- Continue hydration (unless fasting)
- Bring current medications and identification
- Arrange for a driver after sedation
3. Day-Of Arrival
When you arrive:
- You’ll check in with the IR team
- Change into a gown
- Remove jewelry and metal items
- Have your vitals checked
- Have an IV placed for sedation or fluids
What Happens During an Interventional Radiology Procedure
Understanding the process helps ease nerves. Here’s what most patients experience:
1. Getting Prepared
You’ll be positioned comfortably on the procedure table. The care team reviews the steps, answers your questions, and ensures you feel at ease.
2. Anesthesia or Sedation
Most IR procedures use:
- Local anesthesia (numbs the area)
- Conscious sedation (relaxed, but awake)
General anesthesia is usually not needed.
3. Imaging Guidance
The specialist uses imaging—such as X-ray or ultrasound—to visualize blood vessels or organs with precision.
4. The Procedure Itself
A tiny puncture (usually near the groin or wrist) allows insertion of a catheter. Guided by imaging, the radiologist performs the required treatment, such as:
- Opening a blocked artery (angioplasty)
- Placing a stent
- Stopping abnormal bleeding (embolization)
- Removing a clot
- Treating tumors (ablation or embolization)
Most procedures take 30–90 minutes.
After the Procedure: Recovery & What Happens Next
1. Immediate Recovery
You’ll be moved to a recovery area where:
- Nurses monitor your vitals
- The puncture site is observed
- You relax until sedation wears off
2. Going Home
Many IR procedures are same-day, meaning patients can go home shortly afterward. Someone must drive you if sedation was used.
3. At-Home Care
Expect:
- Mild bruising or soreness
- Bandage care instructions
- Avoiding strenuous activity for 24–48 hours
- Drinking plenty of fluids to flush contrast dye
General anesthesia is usually not needed.
4. When to Call Aria Vascular
We ask you to contact us immediately if you notice:
- Increased bleeding
- Fever or chills
- Redness or swelling
- Severe pain
These signs can indicate complications, though they are rare with IR procedures.
Benefits of Interventional Radiology
Compared to traditional surgery, IR offers:
- Smaller incisions
- Minimal pain
- Lower infection risk
- No general anesthesia
- Faster recovery
- Outpatient treatment for many conditions
- High long-term success rates
Patients typically return to normal activities within 1–3 days.
Why Choose Aria Vascular for Your Procedure
Aria Vascular is the only comprehensive, multidisciplinary vascular center in San Joaquin County, offering full outpatient and inpatient care under one roof. Our highly trained interventional radiologists and vascular surgeons use the most advanced technologies to ensure safe, effective, and comfortable treatment experiences.
Whether you need treatment for PAD, venous disease, fibroids, aneurysms, or other vascular conditions—our team delivers care with precision, compassion, and expertise.
What makes us different:
- State-of-the-art endovascular technology
- Full outpatient and inpatient care
- Personalized treatment plans
- Extensive experience in PAD intervention
- Local, accessible care for Stockton, Lodi, Manteca, and Modesto
You don’t need to travel far for world-class vascular care.
