Our services
Interventional Radiology
At South Coast Radiology, our Interventional Radiology (IR) team combines advanced medical imaging with minimally invasive techniques to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions – without traditional surgery.
Using real-time ultrasound, CT, or fluoroscopy guidance, our specialist interventional radiologists perform precise procedures that target specific areas of concern with minimal discomfort and rapid recovery.
This modern approach allows for faster healing, fewer complications, and an effective alternative to many surgical interventions.
What is Interventional Radiology?
Interventional Radiology uses advanced imaging to guide fine instruments such as needles, catheters, or electrodes directly to the area of concern.
These minimally invasive procedures allow our radiologists to diagnose or treat conditions through tiny skin punctures, helping to manage pain in the joints, spine, soft tissues, and tendons – often providing lasting relief without the need for surgery.
Common Interventional Procedures
All procedures are performed by experienced interventional radiologists using advanced imaging and strict sterile technique to ensure precision and safety.
Common procedures at South Coast Radiology include:
Why You Might Need an Interventional Procedure
Interventional Radiology procedures are often part of a comprehensive treatment plan designed to improve function, relieve pain, and reduce the need for surgery.
Your doctor or specialist may refer you for an interventional procedure to:
- Relieve pain or inflammation in joints, the spine, or soft tissues
- Diagnose the cause of persistent pain or swelling
- Drain fluid collections, cysts, or abscesses safely
- Obtain tissue samples for diagnosis
- Treat vascular or tumour-related conditions using minimally invasive methods
- Deliver targeted therapies, such as steroid injections, PRP, ACS, or radiofrequency ablation
About Your Procedure
Before your appointment
Preparation varies by procedure type. Our staff will provide personalised instructions when confirming your booking.
In general:
- Bring your referral, Medicare card, and previous imaging
- Continue usual medications unless advised otherwise
- Inform our team if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take blood thinners
- Have allergies, diabetes or kidney concerns
- Have had previous reactions to contrast dye or anaesthetic
- You may be asked to fast for 4–6 hours for certain procedures
On the day
All procedures are performed by our specialist interventional radiologists, using precision-guided techniques for accurate and effective results.
- You’ll be comfortably positioned in the imaging suite.
- The area will be cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
- Under imaging guidance, the radiologist will perform the treatment
- Most procedures take 30–60 minutes and are well tolerated.
- You’ll be monitored throughout to ensure safety and comfort.
After your appointment
Recovery times vary, but most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
- You’ll rest briefly in recovery before going home (same-day discharge).
- Mild tenderness or bruising may occur but usually resolves quickly.
- Drink plenty of water if you received contrast.
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours unless instructed otherwise.
- Your referring doctor will receive a detailed report once your procedure and imaging review are complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most procedures are performed with local anaesthetic only. Sedation may be used for comfort when appropriate.
Yes. A valid referral from your GP or specialist is required for Medicare rebates and to determine the most appropriate procedure.
Safety & Risks
All procedures are performed by qualified Interventional Radiologists using advanced imaging and sterile technique.
Your radiologist will discuss any specific risks related to your procedure before treatment.
Potential but uncommon risks include:
- Minor bleeding or bruising
- Infection
- Temporary discomfort or numbness
- Allergic reaction to medication or contrast
Image-guided care
Experience interventional procedures with South Coast Radiology.