[History of interventional radiology]

Interventional radiology (IR) was only possible following the detection of x-rays by W.C. Röntgen. Also the development of equipments, contrast media, instruments and catheters was necessary. The historical steps since 1964 and some ideas that existed before are discussed, including special highlights in vascular interventional radiology. All the interventional radiological methods used in biliary diseases, urogenital problems and tumour therapy are shortly discussed. The paper gives a personal view of the history of IR, from its beginnings up to day, by a man actively working in this field.