What family physicians should know about interventional radiology?

Area of Science:

• Minimally invasive medical procedures
• Diagnostic and therapeutic interventions

Background:

• Interventional radiology (IR) offers minimally invasive alternatives to traditional surgery.
• IR is increasingly the preferred treatment for vascular diseases, aortic pathologies, and venous conditions.
• IR procedures are crucial in interventional oncology, women's health, and palliative care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the knowledge gap of interventional radiology among family physicians (FPs) in Saudi Arabia.
• To provide FPs with an overview of commonly performed IR procedures relevant to their practice.
• To enhance patient referral and management by increasing FP awareness of IR services.

Main Methods:

• A nonsystematic review of common interventional radiology procedures.
• Focus on clinical indications, benefits, and alternatives for each procedure.
• Content tailored for family physicians' understanding and application.

Main Results:

• Interventional radiology encompasses a wide range of treatments for various conditions.
• Key procedures include those for peripheral vascular disease, aortic and venous diseases, oncology, and women's health.
• Understanding these procedures can optimize patient management and referrals.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant knowledge deficit regarding interventional radiology among FPs in Saudi Arabia.
• Educating FPs on IR procedures is essential for improving patient care and utilization of IR services.
• This review provides foundational knowledge to bridge the gap between FPs and interventional radiology.