Treatments We Offer
At Northern Beaches Interventional Radiology, we specialise in minimally invasive treatment options, suitable for a variety of conditions. Find out more below.
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Prostate Artery Embolisation
PAE stands for prostate artery embolisation. This is an innovative procedure used to treat benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) – a condition resulting in the enlargement of a prostate, a common cause for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).
Uterine Fibroid Embolisation
UFE has been used to treat uterine fibroids for over 20 years and has an established role in the management of symptomatic fibroids. It had been shown to reduce symptoms and provide lasting results in up to 95% of cases, and is approved by Medicare.
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Uterine Artery Embolisation for Adenomyosis
This minimally invasive approach is almost identical UFE performed for uterine fibroids. This allows significant symptom control in a majority of patients and can prevent the need for hysterectomy.
Embolisation for Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
PCS is a condition caused by abnormal swelling of the veins in the pelvis. This is usually due to a problem with the valves in these veins. Treatment options in the past involved surgical management of these veins. This has given way to modern minimally invasive treatment in which the abnormal dilated veins are embolised. Embolising, or blocking, these abnormal veins removes this increased pressure in the pelvis and can improve pain.
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Varicocele Embolisation
Many men do not need treatment for their varicocele. For those who have troublesome symptoms and in particular those with potential fertility issues, management options include embolisation or surgery.
Aneurysm Embolisation
Aneurysms in the abdomen are best managed by embolisation, where special soft metal coils are placed inside the aneurysm, or by stenting where a mesh stent is placed across the aneurysm. Both these methods prevent blood flow in the aneurysm leading it to clot. Once clotted the aneurysm does not increase in size and the risk of rupture is reduced.
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Vertebroplasty
Osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures. This can happen following a fall for example but can also involve the bones in the spine, known as the vertebrae, even in the absence of any injury. Vertebroplasty is an effective method of pain control in well-selected patients with spinal osteoporotic compression fractures.
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Portacath Insertion
A portacath (or port) is a special small medical device placed to allow access to the veins. It allows you to have chemotherapy or transfusions without having to undergo repeated conventional vein needle access and without damaging your veins. Ports can also be used to allow vein access in patients who have damaged veins as a result of previous medical treatment.
Pleurx Drain Insertion
A pleurx drain is a special type of tube which is inserted under the skin into either the abdomen or chest. It is used to allow safe and quick drainage of fluid. In patients where fluid in these places builds up very quickly and has to be drained regularly, a pleurx drain allows regular drainage without the need for a needle to be inserted. The pleurx drain can also be used to drain fluid at home or in rooms, without the need for admission for a procedure.
Tumour Ablation
Tumour ablation is the process of using heat energy, delivered by a special needle directly into the tumour, to destroy the tumour. It is a safe and effective method of treating certain tumours with minimal side effects. It allows treatment of tumour in patients who might not be fit for a major operation. The technique allows preservation of the normal healthy tissue near the tumour meaning it can be used in patients who cannot undergo surgery because of previous surgeries or treatments.
