Cancer Treatments
CT/US guided biopsy, radiofrequency or cryoablation of tumors, chemoembolization of liver tumors, port-a-catheter placement/removal, gastrostomy tube placement
There are several cancer procedures that are offered by the interventional radiologists of Advanced Radiology. In many cases, a minimally invasive needle biopsy that is guided by CT scan or ultrasound is safer and can result in a precise biopsy sample.
In another minimally invasive procedure, utilizing a special needle, the interventional radiologist can destroy tumors through radiofrequency with heat or cryoablation by freezing. Both procedures are guided with imaging technology such as CT scans or ultrasound.
Chemoembolization is a minimally invasive palliative treatment for liver tumors offered by interventional radiologists. Through the precise delivery of the chemotherapeutic agent and particles into the vessels that feed the tumor, the tumor is “starved” of its blood supply. Thus, the goal is to improve the quality of life for the patient.
Liver chemoembolization is Dr. Jeffrey Himmelberg’s expertise. His mentors at Northwestern were world famous interventional oncologists, Dr. Riad Salem and Dr. Robert Lewandowski.
Using imaging guidance, such as X-ray and ultrasound, port-a-catheters and gastrostomy tubes can be placed very safely. A port-a-catheter is a medical device that is placed under the skin which allows easy access to the blood stream. For cancer patients who require multiple injections and blood samples, using a port-a-catheter makes the experience of treatment a bit easier.