Entries by Adrienne McCarthy

Why ports are placed in the chest region?

A chemo port, also known as a port-a-cath, is a small device placed under the skin to allow long-term access to the bloodstream during chemotherapy treatment. It is most commonly positioned in the upper chest because this location provides direct access to large central veins, ensuring safe and efficient delivery of medication, blood samples, and […]

What happens after prostate embolisation?

During Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE), microscopic particles are used to block the blood supply feeding the enlarged prostate. Once this blood flow is reduced, the prostate begins a gradual process of shrinkage over the following weeks and months. As the tissue decreases in size, pressure on the urethra is relieved, allowing urine to flow more […]

Osteopenia vs Osteoporosis

Bone health is assessed using a DEXA scan, a specialised imaging test that measures bone mineral density using low-dose X-rays. It is used to diagnose conditions such as osteopenia and osteoporosis, and to assess fracture risk over time. Osteopenia refers to a mild reduction in bone density, where bones are weaker than expected but not […]

A tiny incision with UFE

Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist for the management of uterine fibroids. The procedure involves the insertion of a catheter, commonly through a small access point at the groin, using imaging guidance to reach the uterine arteries. Small particles are then introduced to reduce blood flow to […]

FAQ: What’s the difference between a Radiologist and Radiographer?

The terms radiologist and radiographer are sometimes used interchangeably, but they refer to different roles within medical imaging. A radiographer is a trained healthcare professional who performs imaging examinations such as X-rays, CT scans and MRI scans. Their role includes operating imaging equipment and ensuring images are obtained safely and accurately. A radiologist is a […]

The importance of uterine cavity assessment before FTR

Before Fallopian Tube Recanalisation (FTR) is performed, a detailed assessment of the uterine cavity is essential to ensure the procedure is safe, appropriate, and likely to be effective. This evaluation helps identify intrauterine abnormalities such as adhesions, polyps, or structural variations that may influence fertility or impact treatment planning. If you would like to learn […]

Why enlarged prostates cause frequent urination

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), or an enlarged prostate, can compress the urethra and disrupt the normal flow of urine. This obstruction often causes frequent urination, urgency, weak stream, and difficulty emptying the bladder. Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that targets the prostate’s blood supply with micro particles, causing it to shrink […]

A dual‑action approach to tumours

Trans‑Arterial Chemoembolisation (TACE) is a minimally invasive procedure that treats liver tumours using a dual‑action approach. It combines targeted chemotherapy delivery directly into the tumour-feeding arteries with embolisation, where tiny particles block these vessels to cut off the tumour’s blood supply. This concentrated strategy allows the chemotherapy to act locally while depriving the tumour of […]

How VABB targets non-palpable breast lesions

Vacuum‑Assisted Breast Biopsy (VABB) precisely targets non-palpable breast lesions using advanced imaging guidance. Ultrasound or mammography helps the clinician pinpoint the area of concern, while a small probe is inserted through a tiny incision. Gentle suction collects multiple tissue samples from the exact spot in a single pass, improving diagnostic accuracy. In some cases, small […]