The Benefits of Cryoablation for Nerve Pain Relief
January 23, 2026
Interventional radiology uses medical imaging to guide minimally invasive surgical procedures, and doctors employ these techniques to diagnose and treat various conditions. X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs allow specialists to see inside the body without large incisions. This innovative field offers alternatives to traditional open surgery because it may involve less risk and shorter recovery times. Here is more information about interventional radiology for pain management:
Performing Angiography
Angiography helps doctors visualize blood vessels, and it typically involves injecting a contrast dye into the arteries. Specialists insert a catheter into an artery through a small cut in the skin. Because the dye makes the vessels visible on X-rays, the medical team obtains a clear map of blood flow.
Doctors analyze these images to identify blockages or narrowing within the vessels. If they spot a significant issue, they might proceed with treatment immediately. They typically treat the problem during the same procedure, which saves the patient from needing a second appointment. This procedure acts as a roadmap for vascular health, and it guides future treatment decisions effectively.
Taking Biopsies
A biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample for examination, and interventional radiology makes this process precise. Doctors use imaging guidance to direct a needle to the exact location of the abnormality. While the procedure sounds simple, it requires significant skill to target the correct tissue safely. Pathologists examine the collected sample under a microscope to determine the nature of the disease.
Using Drainage Procedures
Fluid collections in the body cause discomfort or infection, but drainage procedures offer a solution. Interventional radiologists insert a catheter into the fluid pocket using imaging for guidance. Since the fluid drains out continuously, the pressure within the body decreases significantly.
- Abscesses requiring infection control
- Cysts causing organ compression
- Fluid buildup around the lungs
- Excess fluid in the abdominal cavity
This method avoids the need for more invasive surgeries. The catheter stays in place until most of the fluid is gone. Doctors monitor the output volume daily to track progress.
Managing Pain
Interventional radiology plays a significant role in chronic pain management, and it targets the source of pain directly. Nerve blocks stop pain signals from traveling to the brain. Because the medication goes right to the nerve, patients typically experience immediate relief from their symptoms.
Vertebroplasty treats painful spinal fractures caused by osteoporosis. Doctors inject a special cement mixture into the fractured bone to stabilize it. While the cement hardens quickly, the structural integrity of the spine improves almost instantly.
Ablation therapy uses heat or cold to destroy nerve tissue, and this technique provides long-term relief for some patients. Radiofrequency energy heats the nerve tissue to interrupt pain signals. Doctors select this option when other conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief.
Schedule Interventional Radiology Treatment
Interventional radiology offers minimally invasive options for many conditions, and it focuses on precise diagnosis and effective treatment. If you struggle with chronic pain or vascular issues, consult with a specialist to explore your options. Because these procedures use advanced imaging, they may result in faster recovery times than traditional surgery. Contact a radiology clinic today to schedule a consultation.
