What is diagnostic radiology?

Diagnostic radiology (sometimes called diagnostic radiography) is a medical specialisation that involves using a range of imaging procedures, such as X-Ray, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Fluoroscopy and Ultrasound, to obtain images of the inside of the body. A diagnostic radiologist then carefully interprets these images to diagnose illness and injury. It is the core of clinical decision-making in modern medicine.

What is interventional radiology?

Interventional Radiology uses these imaging techniques to guide small medical instruments into the body via an artery or vein in order to perform a range of minimally invasive procedures, such as Endovenous Laser Ablation (EVLA) to treat varicose veins. The images are used to guide catheters and instruments to the exact area where the procedure or treatment is to be performed. This reduces the need for traditional (open) or keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery as treatment can be given via a small plastic tube about the size of a thin straw.

Dr Mark Regi is an expert in both Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology. All of the procedures he performs are within an artery or vein, under imaging guidance. He also reports on complex vascular CT and MRI scans for Medica.