Interventional Radiology in Oncology: Minimally Invasive Cancer Therapy
Interventional Radiology in Oncology Interventional Radiology in Oncology
Request an appointment Consult our Cancer Specialists

1. What Does Our Interventional Radiology Department Do?

The Interventional Radiology (IR) Department is at the forefront of minimally invasive cancer treatment, offering highly targeted, image-guided therapies that often serve as alternatives to traditional surgery. Our expert interventional radiologists use advanced imaging (CT, Ultrasound, Fluoroscopy) to perform precise procedures—including Tumor Ablation (RFA/MWA), Embolization (TACE), and Radioembolization (TARE/SIRT)—directly within the tumor site. This approach ensures maximum therapeutic impact, reduced pain, faster recovery, and high treatment precision for cancers of the liver, kidney, and bone.

Interventional Radiology has pioneered the concept of performing complex procedures through a small nick in the skin, often utilizing thin catheters and needles. In oncology, this dramatically reduces the physical toll of treatment, allowing patients to recover faster and commence other therapies sooner.

Core Scope and Mission

Our department is dedicated to providing minimally invasive, image-guided cancer therapies that maximize therapeutic impact while minimizing patient discomfort and recovery time.

Image-Guided Precision

We utilize the most advanced imaging technologies to create real-time internal maps of the body. This allows the interventional radiologist to navigate delicate structures and deliver treatments directly into the tumor with sub-millimeter accuracy.

  • Real-time CT, Ultrasound, and Fluoroscopy guidance
  • Sub-millimeter accuracy in tumor targeting
  • Advanced navigation through complex anatomy

Loco-Regional Therapy

Our focus is on delivering high-impact, localized therapy—such as concentrated doses of chemotherapy or radiation—directly to the tumor, minimizing systemic toxicity and side effects on distant healthy organs.

  • TACE for liver cancer with high-dose chemotherapy
  • Radioembolization (TARE/SIRT) for targeted radiation
  • Reduced systemic side effects and faster recovery

Multifaceted Support

We are integral to the multidisciplinary team by providing essential diagnostic services (image-guided biopsies), therapeutic interventions (tumor destruction), and palliative procedures (managing symptoms like pain or fluid build-up).

  • Image-guided biopsies for accurate diagnosis
  • Tumor ablation for localized destruction
  • Palliative procedures for symptom management

2. Comprehensive Services: Advanced Needle and Catheter-Based Therapies

We offer a spectrum of innovative, minimally invasive procedures for the treatment and management of tumors and related conditions.

Tumor Ablation (RFA, MWA, Cryoablation)

A minimally invasive, needle-based procedure used to destroy small, localized tumors (e.g., liver, lung, kidney, bone) using extreme temperatures. Radiofrequency (RFA) and Microwave (MWA) use heat, while Cryoablation uses extreme cold (freezing) to induce coagulative necrosis.

Spot Treatment for Tumors: Through a small needle inserted under image guidance, we effectively "burn" or "freeze" small tumors without needing an incision or open surgery. This is often performed as a day procedure with rapid recovery.

Trans-Arterial Chemoembolization (TACE)

A Loco-regional Therapy primarily for Liver Cancer (HCC). A catheter is guided into the hepatic artery supplying the tumor. Chemotherapy is injected directly, followed by tiny particles to block (embolize) the blood flow, trapping the high-dose drug inside the tumor.

Double-Attack on Liver Tumors: We use a tiny tube to inject high-dose chemotherapy directly into the tumor's blood vessel, and then we block that blood vessel. This kills the tumor by poisoning it and cutting off its food supply simultaneously.

Radioembolization (TARE / SIRT)

A highly advanced procedure delivering micro-spheres containing the radioactive isotope Yttrium-90 directly to the tumor via the artery. This internal radiation therapy provides a high, localized dose of radiation with minimal exposure to healthy liver tissue.

Internal Radiation Beads: We inject microscopic beads carrying radiation (Yttrium-90) directly into the tumor's blood supply. The beads get lodged in the tumor and release radiation internally, killing the cancer cells precisely while protecting the rest of the liver.

Theranostics & Palliative IR

Theranostics involves combining a diagnostic radioactive molecule with a therapeutic one to target specific tumor cell markers (e.g., PRRT for NETs). Palliation includes image-guided procedures to relieve symptoms, such as placing drainage tubes (biliary stents, nephrostomy) or performing ablation for painful bone metastases.

Target and Treat: This future-focused medicine allows us to find and treat tumors using the same smart radioactive substance. We also offer precise relief for cancer symptoms, like unblocking bile ducts or precisely treating painful bone spots with targeted ablation.

3. Our Unique Strengths (USPs) in Interventional Radiology

A. High-Volume Specialized Expertise

Leaders in Liver Cancer Therapy

Our interventional radiologists are high-volume experts in TACE, TARE/SIRT, and Ablation for primary and metastatic liver diseases, adhering to the standard of care recommended by the NCCN for HCC management.

Minimally Invasive Excellence

Most IR procedures are performed under local anesthesia and sedation, allowing patients to leave the hospital the same day or the next, significantly accelerating their return to systemic therapy.

B. Integrated Research and Technology

Precision Planning

We utilize advanced imaging and planning software to calculate tumor volumes, surrounding anatomy, and highly specific radiation dosages (personalized Y-90 dosimetry), ensuring maximum safety and treatment effectiveness.

Innovative Clinical Trials

Our department actively participates in clinical trials, exploring novel combinations of IR techniques with modern therapies—such as combining TACE, TARE with Immunotherapy or SBRT—to expand treatment options for patients with advanced or previously untreatable tumors.

C. Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Seamless Teamwork

We work closely with Hepatologists, Surgical Oncologists, and Medical Oncologists to ensure IR therapies are optimally timed and integrated, often serving as a bridge to surgery, transplantation, or systemic treatment.

Our Interventional Radiology Specialists

Meet our specialized interventional radiology experts dedicated to minimally invasive cancer therapy.

Sri Shankara Cancer Hospital Footer