Modern trends in interventional radiology

OBJECTIVE: To review the current applications of Interventional Radiology (IR), outline newer technologies and techniques and emphasize the role of Interventional Radiologists as clinical practitioners. BACKGROUND: IR is a clinical modality that makes use of imaging guidance for the performance of minimally invasive treatment. The development of new imaging technologies and interventional devices has greatly increased the number of medical conditions that may now be treated by IR. SUMMARY: Promising new treatments in cancer therapy, the treatment of fibroids, venous access and spine interventions as well as advances in non-invasive vascular imaging, pharmacological therapies and peripheral arterial and venous interventions are providing exciting opportunities for IR, attracting significant patient interest and promising tremendous public benefit.