Interventional Oncology
Less invasive treatments for cancer
Interventional Cancer Treatments
A subspecialty of radiology, interventional radiology (IR) uses an array of treatments such as these:
Types of Cancer
Interventional radiologists at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) Cancer Center treat a wide variety of cancers and other conditions without invasive surgeries. Your oncologist (physician who specializes in cancer) may recommend interventional oncology as part of your cancer treatment plan for these and other cancers:
Percutaneous Tumor Ablation, or Radioembolization
During percutaneous tumor ablation, your interventional radiologist uses imaging (CT scan or ultrasound) to locate the tumor. The radiologist uses radiofrequency, microwave (burning) or cryoablation (freezing) to destroy the cancerous area.
Transarterial Embolization
The goal of this minimally invasive treatment is to block blood flow to the tumor. Over time, this can help shrink or destroy the tumor. During transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), the interventional radiologist also delivers chemotherapy drugs to the tumor.
Advancing Care, Research & Education
Cancer Center
The Cancer Center is renowned for exceptional cancer care and for pioneering discoveries in cancer treatment.
Cancer Research Institute
The Cancer Research Institute is an interdisciplinary center focused on understanding cancer with the goal of curing it.
Cancer Education & Training
The Cancer Center offers comprehensive education and training opportunities for residents, fellows and researchers.
