Advances in interventional radiology. The search for less invasive management sparks new approaches

Many new, minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures are now viable alternatives to traditional invasive therapy. The radiology procedures can often be performed in the outpatient setting, and although expensive technology may be required, the overall cost to the patient may be lower in the long run. Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms with stent grafts and radiofrequency tumor ablation are examples of rapidly expanding technologies in interventional radiology. Patient enthusiasm and interest are the primary forces driving these advances in management. Familiarity with these procedures is vital as medicine moves into the new millennium.