Entries by Adrienne McCarthy

How many samples are taken during a breast biopsy?

During a vacuum-assisted breast biopsy (VABB), obtaining multiple tissue samples is key to building a complete diagnostic picture. Using a specialised vacuum-assisted device, a radiologist can typically retrieve between 8 and 12 tissue samples through a single, small incision without the need for repeated needle insertions. This technique allows a larger volume of tissue to […]

What does the dye actually show during an HSG?

Every movement of the contrast dye during a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) provides valuable diagnostic information. As the dye fills the uterine cavity and travels through the fallopian tubes, it creates a clear outline of the reproductive tract under X-ray guidance. Uninterrupted flow through the tubes, with the dye spilling from the fimbrial ends, indicates that the […]

Why long-term treatment often starts with reliable access

For patients undergoing long-term treatment, reliable venous access can make care more efficient and comfortable. A venous port is a small device placed beneath the skin and connected to a large vein, providing direct access to the bloodstream when medications, fluids, blood products, or nutritional support need to be administered 🧬 Venous ports are commonly […]

4 signs of an enlarged prostate story

An enlarged prostate, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a common condition that affects many men as they age. Although non-cancerous, it can have a significant impact on daily life by placing pressure on the bladder and urethra. Five common signs of an enlarged prostate include urinary urgency, difficulty starting urination, interrupted urine […]

How imaging helps doctors plan treatment, not just make diagnoses

Diagnostic imaging does more than help doctors make a diagnosis. It provides detailed insight into what is happening inside the body, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the location, size, and extent of a condition with greater accuracy. Using advanced technologies such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, and X-ray imaging, doctors can gather valuable information that helps […]

Living with heavy periods is not a treatment plan

Living with heavy periods is not a treatment plan 🌸 While uterine fibroids may begin as small, unnoticeable growths, they can become increasingly disruptive as they grow. Many women initially dismiss symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic discomfort, bloating, frequent urination, or fatigue as something they simply need to manage. Over time, however, these […]

The importance of regular breast screening

Interventional Radiology (IR) is a specialised branch of medicine that uses advanced imaging technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions throughout the body. Using guidance from X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans, and other imaging techniques, interventional radiologists can perform targeted procedures through tiny incisions using small instruments such as catheters. Some Interventional Radiology […]

What is Interventional Radiology?

Interventional Radiology (IR) is a specialised branch of medicine that uses advanced imaging technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions throughout the body. Using guidance from X-ray, ultrasound, CT scans, and other imaging techniques, interventional radiologists can perform targeted procedures through tiny incisions using small instruments such as catheters. Some Interventional Radiology […]