Interventional oncology is a subspecialty of interventional radiology that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer using minimally invasive procedures. The goal of interventional oncology is to target and treat cancerous tumors without the need for traditional open surgery. Instead, it utilizes image-guided techniques such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and fluoroscopy to precisely locate and treat cancerous lesions.
Interventional oncology procedures can include:
- Tumor Ablation: This involves using various techniques to destroy or shrink tumors. Common methods include radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation, and cryoablation. These techniques use heat or extreme cold to kill cancer cells.
- Transarterial Therapies: These procedures involve delivering therapeutic agents directly to the tumor through blood vessels. Examples include transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) and transarterial radioembolization (TARE), where chemotherapy drugs or radioactive particles are delivered to the tumor site.
- Percutaneous Tumor Biopsy: This involves using imaging guidance to obtain small samples of tissue from the tumor for diagnostic purposes.
- Percutaneous Drainage Procedures: In cases where tumors cause fluid buildup, interventional oncology can be used to drain the fluid, relieving symptoms and improving the patient's quality of life.
- Embolization: This involves blocking blood vessels that supply the tumor, cutting off its blood supply and causing it to shrink. This can be done using various embolic agents.
Interventional oncology procedures are often less invasive than traditional surgical methods, leading to quicker recovery times and reduced overall trauma to the patient. They are typically performed by interventional radiologists who have specialized training in using imaging techniques to guide these procedures.
It's important to note that the specific interventional oncology procedures used can vary depending on the type and location of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the patient. These procedures are often part of a multidisciplinary approach to cancer treatment, and the choice of intervention depends on factors such as the size and location of the tumor, the patient's overall health, and the type of cancer being treated.