Interventional Radiology

Overview

Interventional Radiology uses state-of-the-art imaging guiding minimally invasive techniques to treat common medical conditions in dogs and cats. These techniques allow surgeons to reach areas of the body which challenge traditional surgical access. They also facilitate and optimise recovery and comfort, meaning hospital stays are minimised.

Interventional Radiology: Cardiology Service

Our Cardiology Service offers the following procedures:

• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) occlusion using the Canine Amplatz ductal Occluder (ACDO) or AVP II for patients as small as 1kg
• Balloon Valvuloplasty for pulmonic stenosis
• Stenting of the pulmonic valve for pulmonic stenosis
• Pacemaker implantation
• Left atrial decompression.

Our Medical Service offers the following procedures:

• Embolisation of certain hepatic and prostatic tumours
• Urethral stent placement for management of strictures and transitional cell carcinoma
• Tracheal stent placement for tracheal collapse
• Stent placement for nasopharyngeal strictures
• Intravascular coil implantation to treat intrahepatic portosystemic (liver) shunts
• Subcutaneous ureteral bypass system (SUB) implantation to treat cats with upper urinary tract obstruction.

These interventions demand superb imaging facilities and expertise, in addition to specific training that builds on, and complements, the traditional skills of specialist soft tissue surgeons. They involve either no incision at all or, in the case of intravascular procedures, a small skin incision over a blood vessel. Patients typically go home the next day.