CT Colography / virtual colonography : Uses 3D CT images to build up a picture of the colon to detect large bowel polyps and tumours. Because of the use of radiation referrals are not taken directly from patients.
Fibroid embolisation: a technique that can sometimes be used as an alternative to conventional surgery. A fine tube is inserted into a blood vessel in your groin and the blood supply to the fibroids (benign fibrous growths which can cause pain and heavy periods) is disturbed. Patients interested in this technique will need to be fully assessed to make sure this treatment is appropriate.
Varicocele embolisation: A varicocele is a collection of prominent veins around the testicle. Conventional treatment involves a surgical operation. Using an approach similar to fibroid embolisation the blood supply to the dilated veins can be interrupted essentially removing the dilated vessels. Again careful consideration needs to be given as to the best patients for this technique.
Radiofrequency ablation of tumours: this is a relatively new technique where small electrodes are passed into tumours. Local heating occurs around the needle tip having the effect of killing tumour cells. This technique is useful in bowel cancer that has spread to the liver and lung.
Musculoskeltal imaging: Ultrasound, MRI and occasionally CT are used to address specific diagnostic questions. As well as diagnostic services we offer (in conjunction with our clinical colleagues) the full range of muscluo-skeletal interventional services including image guided joint injection and barbotage.
