Vascular and Interventional Radiology Unit

The Vascular and Interventional Radiology Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital treats patients who require minimally invasive diagnostic or therapeutic procedures as an alternative to or in addition to conventional surgery. It treats vascular, oncological and musculoskeletal conditions using image-guided techniques that enable precise intervention on the affected area, reducing tissue damage and shortening recovery times.

Conditions treated using interventional vascular procedures

Specialist assessment is aimed at patients with arterial or venous disease, complex vascular complications, portal hypertension, tumours suitable for embolisation, and musculoskeletal conditions that may benefit from image-guided percutaneous treatment.

It is indicated when an endovascular alternative to open surgery is being considered, when it is necessary to control bleeding or treat hard-to-reach vascular lesions, or when a precise therapeutic approach to deep structures is required.

The initial aim is to confirm the clinical indication, define the most appropriate technical strategy and assess the individual risk profile prior to the procedure.

Diagnostic assessment and procedure planning

The process begins with a specialist consultation and a review of previous test results. Where indicated, diagnostic angiography, Doppler ultrasound or contrast-enhanced computed tomography are performed to characterise the vascular anatomy or the target lesion.

Each procedure is planned on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the patient’s clinical condition, comorbidities and the various treatment options. In complex cases, the decision to proceed is made in consultation with the departments of Vascular Surgery, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Orthopaedics or other relevant specialities.

Advanced vascular procedures

In the field of vascular medicine, we perform diagnostic arteriography and phlebography, angioplasty with stent placement, and arterial, venous and portal vein embolisation. We also carry out more complex procedures, such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) or renal denervation in selected cases.

These procedures are important in the treatment of limb ischaemia, venous insufficiency, active haemorrhages, portal hypertension or vascular complications associated with other conditions.

Image-guided interventional oncology

The unit performs tumour embolisation using microcatheters and advanced image-guided navigation systems. These techniques can be used as the primary treatment or as a pre-surgical procedure, reducing the risk of haemorrhage and facilitating resection.

The indication is determined following a joint assessment with the Oncology and Surgery departments, taking into account the extent of the tumour, its location and the patient’s overall clinical condition.

Image-guided musculoskeletal procedures

In the musculoskeletal field, we perform joint and muscle injections, drainage of fluid collections, evacuation of haematomas, sclerotherapy of vascular and tendon lesions, lavage of calcifications and capsular hydrodilation.

The use of fluoroscopy and high-resolution ultrasound enables the precise localisation of the lesion to be confirmed and ensures the correct administration of treatment.

Clinical follow-up and radiological monitoring

Following each procedure, clinical and, where appropriate, radiological monitoring is carried out to assess the response to treatment and detect any potential complications.

Follow-up is coordinated with the specialist department responsible for the underlying condition, ensuring continuity of care and the progressive adjustment of the treatment plan.

Team specialising in interventional radiology

The unit comprises interventional radiologists with specific expertise and extensive experience in vascular, oncological and musculoskeletal techniques of varying complexity.

The team takes time during consultations to explain the diagnosis, the rationale for the procedure and the available alternatives. The benefits, risks and limitations are clearly outlined, promoting shared and fully informed decision-making.

Coordination with Vascular Surgery, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Orthopaedics and other specialities enables each procedure to be integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan, ensuring continuity of care and planned follow-up.