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Interventional Oncology

Radiologists at NMMC-Tupelo use Interventional oncology procedures to help fight cancer from all angles.

Collaboration & Innovation for Cutting Edge Care

Interventional oncology uses image-guided technology to perform minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cancer. The goal is to reduce risk, pain and recovery time for patients.

Interventional Radiology for Cancer Care

Interventional radiology combines state-of-the-art-imaging systems such as X-ray, ultrasound and CT to guide small instruments into the patient’s body to diagnose and treat cancer. Because only small incisions are needed, interventional radiology procedures are less invasive than traditional open surgery.

Performed at NMMC-Tupelo by specially trained radiologists
Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis.
General anesthesia usually is not required.
Patients generally have less pain, less risk of infection and quicker recovery.
Referral required.

Y-90 or Radioembolization

To deliver radiation treatment to tumors in the liver, radiologists can use an interventional oncology procedure, Y-90 or radioembolization. The minimally invasive treatment uses tiny radioactive beads, called microspheres that measure about one-third the diameter of a human hair. Over 10 to 12 days, the beads emit high dose radiation, causing the tumor to shrink while minimizing collateral damage.

Used to treat liver cancer that cannot be removed with surgery

Can be used in conjunction with other cancer treatments

Can be used to shrink/downstage liver tumors

Shown to help liver cancer patients live longer with improved quality of life

Additional Interventional Oncology Procedures

Interventional oncology provides minimally invasive treatment options that target cancer and limit damage to healthy tissue. Microwave ablation uses interventional radiology tools to deliver treatment using microwaves to heat and destroy the tumor. Chemoembolization allows interventional radiologists to inject anti-cancer drugs directly into the blood vessel that feeds a cancerous tumor to cut off the blood supply to the tumor.