Interventional Radiology and Fluoroscopy Summary
Interventional Radiology (IR) and Fluoroscopy - RAD5504-B Notes
Module Overview
Instructor: Kay Hizzett (Lead), Nicola Singh, Gareth Iball, Erin Berry, Ash Bardwell
Module Importance: Focus on evolution and role of IR in modern medicine.
Core Learning Outcomes:
Describe the importance of IR in patient care.
Understand basic IR principles and responsibilities of radiographers.
Module Aims
Enable accurate performance of fluoroscopic and interventional imaging techniques.
Emphasis on maintaining patient safety, environmental safety, and multiprofessional teamwork.
Learning Outcomes by Category
Patient Monitoring & Care
Interpret monitoring data during fluoroscopy.
Identify signs of complications and emergencies pre-, during, and post-procedure.
Sterile Techniques
Employ sterile techniques to minimize hazard, contamination, and manage waste/spillage.
Anatomical Knowledge
Identify normal vascular appearances, pathophysiological processes, and common pathologies via fluoroscopy.
Imaging Techniques
Demonstrate knowledge of radiation protection, drug preparation, and imaging for diagnostics.
Assessment Format
Computerized Assessment: Quiz on CANVAS with varied questions; 1-hour duration.
Formative Assessment: Mock exam with revision seminar support.
Key Study Topics
Vascular anatomy
Drug utilization in IR
Equipment used in IR
Radiation safety protocols
Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) roles and communication
Patient care processes in IR practices
Infection control measures
Readiness Assurance Tests (RATs)
Comprises 20 multiple-choice questions.
Can be taken individually or in teams to assess knowledge and readiness for practical applications.
Individual RATs: Assign marks to quiz questions based on certainty.
Team RATs: Points awarded based on correctness and agreement on answers.
Understanding Interventional Radiology (IR)
Definition: Minimally invasive diagnosis/treatment using imaging for targeted intervention.
Benefits of IR:
Adjuvant to traditional surgery.
Targets interventions with imaging support.
Typical Procedures in IR
Cardiac catheterizations, vascular interventions, biopsies, drainage, etc.
Conditions treated include:
Blocked arteries, cancer therapies, trauma interventions, etc.
Patient Characteristics in IR
Patients may be unfit for surgery, referred late in illness, or unable to comply with traditional procedures.
Common conditions among IR patients:
Diabetes, renal failure, cancer, and various vascular disorders.
Interdisciplinary Approach in IR
Collaboration among various health professionals (HCPs) is crucial for optimal patient care.
Involves consultant radiologists, nurses, scrub and recovery teams, and technical support staff.
Role of Radiographers in IR
Key Responsibilities:
Ensure patient preparation and comfort.
Manage equipment and imaging acquisition.
Maintain high standards for radiation safety and quality assurance.
Provide assistance during procedures through real-time imaging and patient monitoring.
Radiographers are integral in post-procedural care, documentation, and reporting.
Challenges in Radiation Safety
Need for strict adherence to safety protocols by all team members to minimize exposure risks during procedures.
History and Development of IR
Key Milestones:
1929: First heart catheterization by Werner Forssmann.
1953: First selective angiography.
1960s: Introduction of angioplasty by Charles Dotter.
Ongoing advancements in imaging and intervention technologies.
Advantages and Disadvantages of IR
Advantages:
Minimally invasive, shorter recovery times, outpatient procedures, and lower overall costs.
Disadvantages:
High demand, limited availability, and potential complications from procedures.
Conclusion
Understanding IR is essential for future radiographers to excel in a rapidly evolving field, ensuring high-quality care through teamwork and expertise in imaging and patient management.