Role of Interventional Radiology in Managing High-Level Athletes: Beyond Conventional Infiltration Techniques

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Interventional Radiology
• Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

• Elite athletes require specialized treatments for musculoskeletal injuries.
• Traditional surgical approaches may involve lengthy recovery times.
• Interventional radiology provides minimally invasive alternatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advanced interventional radiology procedures for high-level athletes.
• To highlight techniques that accelerate recovery and preserve athletic performance.
• To emphasize the expanding role of IR in elite sports medicine.

Main Methods:

• Review of percutaneous computed tomography-guided screw fixation for isthmic spondylolysis.
• Analysis of vertebroplasty for posttraumatic vertebral fractures.
• Examination of percutaneous lumbar diskectomy under CT and fluoroscopic guidance.

Main Results:

• CT-guided screw fixation offers immediate stabilization and early return to sport.
• Vertebroplasty allows rapid weight-bearing for specific fractures.
• Percutaneous lumbar diskectomy provides precise decompression and symptom resolution within days.

Conclusions:

• Interventional radiology techniques offer targeted, image-guided, minimally invasive options for athletes.
• These procedures ensure fast recovery, sustained functionality, and long-term musculoskeletal health.
• IR is becoming essential in the multidisciplinary care of professional athletes.