Entries by Adrienne McCarthy

Diagnosing neurological conditions with MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic tool that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain, spinal cord, and nerves. It is particularly useful for detecting neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, brain tumours, stroke, and nerve injuries. MRI allows doctors to visualise abnormalities with high precision, enabling […]

Fibroids and Anaemia

Fibroids are benign growths in the uterus that can cause heavy, prolonged, or irregular menstrual bleeding. Over time, this excessive blood loss may deplete iron stores in the body and lead to iron‑deficiency anaemia. Symptoms of anaemia can include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and feeling cold. Uterine Fibroid Embolisation (UFE) is a minimally invasive […]

Secondary infertility after pregnancy

Secondary infertility occurs when a woman struggles to conceive after previously giving birth. It can be caused by changes in the reproductive system after pregnancy, infections, or complications during childbirth. Even if conception was previously successful, scar tissue, blocked fallopian tubes, or hormonal imbalances can affect fertility the second time around. Fallopian Tube Recanalisation (FTR) […]

What happens during PT Stent Insertion

During a stenting procedure, flexible catheters and a balloon are used to reopen a blocked artery. The catheter with an uninflated balloon is guided to the site of the obstruction, then the balloon is inflated to widen the vessel. Once the artery is expanded, a permanent mesh stent is placed to maintain consistent blood flow. […]

How Ultrasound-Guided Biopsies are performed

When a mammogram or physical examination reveals a suspicious mass, an ultrasound-guided breast biopsy provides a precise, minimally invasive method to obtain tissue samples. High-frequency sound waves visualise the lesion in real time, allowing the radiologist to position the needle  without major surgery. After local anaesthesia numbs the area, a tiny incision is made to […]

Symptom relief with PAE

An enlarged prostate can cause distressing urinary symptoms, including frequent night-time voids, weak urine flow, and urgency. Prostate Artery Embolisation (PAE) is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces blood flow to the prostate, causing it to shrink and relieving pressure on the urethra. This targeted approach improves urine flow, reduces urgency, and minimises night-time interruptions, […]

Does hormonal imbalance affect fertility?

Hormonal irregularities and physical tubal blockages represent two distinct challenges. While procedures such as Fallopian Tube Recanalisation may address mechanical obstructions, hormonal imbalances can influence fertility by affecting the regularity of ovulation.Fluctuations in chemical messengers, including Follicle‑Stimulating Hormone and Luteinising Hormone, may interfere with the release or maturation of an egg.Achieving a successful pregnancy often […]