Dr Ankit Prabhakar, Dr Gita Devi, Dr Khanak Nandolia
Jammu, a city known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is also emerging as a hub of medical innovation. Interventional Radiology (IR) is a medical specialization which is revolutionizing patient care and bringing cutting-edge treatments to our country. However, it remains a less explored field establishing its roots in our state. This article explores how Interventional Radiology is ushering and establishing its roots in a new era of medical advancements in Jammu and what it means for the local healthcare landscape.
What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional Radiology is a sub-specialty of radiology that utilizes imaging techniques like X-ray, Computed Tomography (CT) scans and Ultrasound (USG) to guide minimally invasive procedures. Unlike traditional surgery, which often involves large incisions, IR procedures are performed through tiny skin punctures, leading to reduced pain, shorter recovery times, and minimal scarring. IR encompasses two primary disciplines, namely, vascular IR and non-vascular IR.
Scope and Services of IR
IR has emerged as a viable approach to reach the profound anatomical structures of the human body through a minimally invasive approach. From treating complex vascular conditions to delivering targeted cancer therapies, IR offers a broad spectrum of treatments. Its ability to provide precise, real-time guidance during procedures makes it a powerful tool for addressing various medical issues with enhanced accuracy and effectiveness.
Various Diagnostic and Treatment Methods in Intervention Imaging include USG/CT guided Biopsy, Percutaneous Nephrostomy (PCN) to relieve urinary obstruction, Image guided Percutaneous Drainage of infected pus collections, Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage (PTBD) for treating benign/malignant biliary obstruction, Angioplasty and stenting in blocked vessels, Angio-Embolisation to treat aneurysms, hemoptysis, GI bleed, vascular anomalies and bleeding caused by trauma, Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) for Varicose veins, Image guided tumor Ablation such as RF, microwave, or cryoablation for treating organ tumours like liver, kidney and lung, Trans Arterial Chemoembolisation (TACE) to target tumor cells in liver cancers.
A Leap Forward for Jammu’s Healthcare System
Jammu’s healthcare infrastructure is projected to show remarkable growth in near future, with the establishment and expansion of Interventional Radiology services in the newly established AIIMS Jammu. Dedicated IR department equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technologies and staffed by highly trained professionals who bring expertise from across the country will be available in coming time.
Transformative Benefits for Patients
Firstly, the minimally invasive nature of IR procedures accounts to less physical trauma and faster recovery. For many patients, this translates into shorter hospital stays, less pain and a quicker return to their daily activities. Patients can often resume their normal activities much sooner, and the risk of post-operative complications is significantly lower.
Furthermore, the precision of IR techniques means that many conditions can be treated more effectively with targeted interventions.
Previously, many patients from Jammu had to seek treatment in metropolitan centers, facing the financial and logistical challenges that came with it. With the advent of IR services locally, patients will benefit from specialized treatments without the burden of long-distance travel.
Future Prospects
Ongoing advancements in technology and technique are expected to further enhance the capabilities of IR, offering even more innovative solutions for complex medical conditions. As the field continues to evolve, AIIMS Jammu is well-positioned to remain at the forefront of this exciting transformation in healthcare.
Conclusion
Interventional Radiology is more than just a medical advancement; it represents a significant leap forward for Jammu’s healthcare system. By bringing state-of-the-art, minimally invasive treatments to the region, IR at AIIMS Jammu will not only improve patient outcomes but also reshape the way healthcare is delivered. As Jammu embraces this new era of medical innovation, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to providing exceptional care and advancing medical excellence.
(The authors are from Department of Radiodiagnosis & Imaging, AIIMS Jammu.)
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