Interventional Radiology and Anesthesia

Interventional radiology (IR) encompasses a broad and expanding array of image-guided, minimally invasive therapies that are essential to the practice of modern medicine. The growth and diversity of these non-OR procedures presents unique challenges and opportunities to anesthesiologists and interventional radiologists alike. Collaborative action has led to better patient care and quality management. This discussion considers some angiographic and cross-sectional IR procedures in more detail and comments on some of the anesthesia choices and considerations. In addition, specific concerns regarding anesthesia in the area of IR are reviewed.