[US-guided interventional procedures: what a radiologist needs to know]

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Interventional Radiology

Context:

• Ultrasound (US) is a valuable tool for guiding medical procedures.
• It offers advantages such as cost-effectiveness, availability, and absence of ionizing radiation.
• US guidance can be performed with specialized devices or the freehand technique.

Purpose:

• To outline the principles and applications of ultrasound-guided interventional procedures.
• To highlight the benefits and requirements for successful US-guided interventions.
• To detail common procedures like biopsies, drainages, and injections.

Summary:

• US guidance is economical, radiation-free, and time-efficient for interventional procedures.
• Techniques include freehand or device-assisted methods, requiring careful planning, asepsis, and anesthesia.
• Real-time needle advancement is controlled within the US plane.
• High-resolution probes are used for superficial tissues, while lower frequency probes are needed for deep tissues.
• Common applications include fine-needle aspiration cytology, core biopsies, catheter drainage, and percutaneous injections for various conditions.

Impact:

• US guidance enhances procedural safety and accuracy.
• It provides a versatile, accessible imaging modality for a range of interventions.
• The technique is particularly beneficial for biopsies, drainages, and injections in superficial and deep tissues.