INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY SERVICES
Hepato-Biliary Interventions
Hepato-biliary interventions are minimally invasive, image-guided procedures used to diagnose and manage conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and related vascular structures. These procedures are performed to relieve obstruction, control bleeding, manage infections, and support liver function while avoiding open surgery in selected patients.
Overview
Hepato-biliary interventions are performed to manage conditions involving impaired bile flow, portal hypertension, liver disease, and related complications. These procedures use real-time imaging guidance to access target structures through small entry points, avoiding the need for open surgery in appropriately selected cases.
Interventional radiology plays a key role in both emergency and elective management of hepato-biliary conditions, including diagnostic, therapeutic, and supportive procedures.
Clinical Indications
- Obstructive jaundice
- Biliary strictures or leaks
- Portal hypertension
- Upper gastrointestinal bleeding
- Liver tumors and tumor-related bleeding
- Chronic liver disease requiring diagnostic evaluation
- Complications of cirrhosis
Procedures Performed
Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD)
Biliary stenting
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS)
Direct intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (DIPSS)
Transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB)
Balloon-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (BARTO)
Plug-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (PARTO)
Embolization for portal hypertension-related bleeding
Image-guided management of biliary and portal venous complications
Role of Interventional Radiology
Interventional radiology enables precise diagnosis and treatment of hepato-biliary conditions using image guidance such as ultrasound, fluoroscopy, CT, and MRI. Procedures are performed through small vascular or percutaneous access points, allowing targeted therapy with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
These techniques are often used as alternatives to open surgery or as supportive measures in patients with complex liver disease who may not be suitable surgical candidates.
Approach and Patient Care
Each procedure is preceded by detailed clinical evaluation and imaging review to determine appropriateness and safety. Treatment planning is individualized, taking into account liver function, disease severity, and overall patient condition.
Patients are monitored before, during, and after procedures to ensure procedural safety and appropriate post-intervention care.
Related Conditions
- Liver tumors (Hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Portal hypertension
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Obstructive jaundice
Frequently Asked Questions
When are hepato-biliary interventions recommended?
These procedures are considered when imaging and clinical findings indicate biliary obstruction, portal hypertension, bleeding, or liver disease requiring minimally invasive management.
Are these procedures alternatives to surgery?
In selected patients, hepato-biliary interventions may be used as alternatives to surgery or as supportive treatment alongside other medical or surgical care.
Is hospitalization required?
Hospitalization depends on the type of procedure performed and the patient’s overall condition. Some interventions require short hospital stays.
How is eligibility for these procedures decided?
Eligibility is determined after clinical assessment, imaging review, and discussion within the treating medical team.
Consult an Interventional Radiologist
A detailed evaluation is essential to determine whether a hepato-biliary intervention is appropriate for your condition.