Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiology (IR) is a rapidly advancing field that plays an important role in modern medicine, offering innovative, minimally invasive techniques and procedures for both simple and complex conditions.

Interventional radiologists use image-guided technology to treat patients through very small incisions and tiny instruments. This approach often results in less pain and a faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.

Boston Children’s plays a leading role in advancing pediatric interventional radiology and brings IR care to children every day. We combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to support the best outcomes for our patients — helping children return to daily life as comfortably as possible.

IR is a specialized medical field that uses advanced imaging technologies — such as X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI — to guide tiny instruments through the body to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions. It offers a wide range of minimally invasive treatment options for many pediatric patients.

These image-guided techniques are commonly used to treat vascular conditions, including vascular anomalies, aneurysms, and abnormal blood vessels. Treatments may include embolization, angioplasty, and stenting to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels.

IR techniques can also help specialists diagnose and treat certain tumors. This may include performing biopsies to confirm a diagnosis or using targeted treatments such as radiofrequency or cryoablation. In some cases, embolization may be used to reduce blood flow to a tumor before surgery or to help control bleeding.

In addition, IR is commonly used to perform biopsies, place feeding tubes and drainage tubes, insert PICC lines, and provide joint injections and pain management.

Our physicians, nurse practitioners, technologists, and nurses are trained in techniques developed specifically for children and use imaging tools and equipment designed or adapted for pediatric care. Our team works collaboratively with pediatric specialists across disciplines to customize treatment plans that best meet each child’s medical needs.

Boston Children’s Hospital’s Interventional Radiology team performs more than 6,000 minimally invasive, image-guided procedures each year. Because our specialists care only for infants, children, teens, and young adults, every step is designed to be safe, gentle, and effective. We use advanced imaging equipment adapted for children to ensure comfort and to keep radiation exposure as low as possible.

Our Interventional Radiology Division is known for its collaborative, patient-centered approach to care. Our dedicated team includes pediatric interventional radiologists, nurses, physician assistants, and radiologic technologists who work closely with specialists across Boston Children’s, including dermatologists, pediatricians, surgeons, hematology-oncology teams, and cardiology teams.

Together, we develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each child’s unique needs. We place a strong emphasis on building trusting relationships with patients and families, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels informed and involved. This collaborative approach allows us to provide high-quality imaging, accurate diagnoses, and compassionate care for every child.

From colorful, welcoming spaces to distraction tools like video goggles, music, and guided play, we work to help children feel relaxed and supported. Our goal is to answer questions clearly, build trust, and make the experience as smooth and reassuring as possible.

Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.