Interventional radiology is a largely unseen specialty that supports nearly every cancer patient at West Cancer Center. Using minimally invasive, image-guided procedures, this specialty plays a critical role in cancer diagnosis and treatment, while also transforming how chronic pain conditions, such as knee arthritis and plantar fasciitis, are managed.
This past November, Dr. Michael Doherty, M.D., joined West Cancer Center & Research Institute as its new Director of Interventional Radiology. With over twenty years of experience, he brings both expertise and a passion for expanding patient access to non-surgical care. “West has wonderful physicians, and the environment, staff, and culture are amazing,” he says. “I’m grateful to be here and plan on taking radiology here to the next level.”
Using real-time X-rays, CAT scans, and ultrasound imaging, interventional radiologists guide needles, catheters, and other instruments through the body without large incisions or open surgery. These techniques allow physicians to diagnose cancer, perform biopsies, and provide targeted treatments by inserting medication directly into blood vessels, draining fluid, and providing pain relief for conditions affecting knees, feet, and shoulders, without the need for general anesthesia.
“New innovations are coming out every year,” Dr. Doherty says, noting that constant advancement “is one of the most exciting parts of being in this specialty.”
Interventional radiology relies on precision imaging to deliver therapy exactly where it’s needed. In cancer care, this involves guiding needle probes into tumors to deliver chemical ablatives that destroy cancerous tissue. For liver cancer patients specifically, catheters can be inserted through the wrist or groin directly into the liver blood supply, where tiny radioactive beads are deposited to block blood flow to the tumor and deliver radiation from within.
That same technology is now being applied beyond oncology. One of the latest procedures offered treats knee arthritis by deposition of microscopic beads into targeted blood vessels around the joint, reducing inflammatory blood flow and alleviating pain. Similar techniques are used for chronic plantar fasciitis and frozen shoulder, offering relief to patients who may not be ready, or eligible, for surgery.
“These treatments have no downtime and minimal side effects,” Dr. Doherty explains. “But patient selection is important,” Dr. Doherty explains. The procedures are particularly beneficial for those hoping to delay surgery, manage milder disease, or address persistent inflammatory pain, as well as for patients who cannot safely undergo anesthesia.
“I think that’s going to follow me throughout my career, people being surprised that I can help,” Dr. Doherty says. “It’s rewarding to complete a procedure, and the patient didn’t even realize you had done it,” he adds of its quick and straightforward nature.
From imaging and biopsies to fluid drainage and targeted therapies, interventional radiology quickly impacts nearly every patient who walks through West Cancer Center’s doors. Though often unseen, its role is essential in offering precision, relief, and new possibilities for patients at every stage of care.
Westcancercenter.org/radiologyhealth
By Shlomit Ovadia
