{"id":13886,"date":"2025-12-19T16:48:47","date_gmt":"2025-12-19T13:48:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/?p=13886"},"modified":"2026-10-13T22:13:55","modified_gmt":"2026-10-13T19:13:55","slug":"what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/","title":{"rendered":"Interventional Oncology: Cancer Treatments, Procedures and Benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Interventional oncology is a medical subspecialty that uses image-guided, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cancer. It focuses on targeting tumors directly with precision techniques such as ablation, embolization, and biopsy while preserving surrounding healthy tissues.<\/p>\n<p>Image-guided cancer treatments such as tumor ablation and transarterial chemoembolization provide localized therapeutic effects by using radiologic imaging modalities. These procedures reduce systemic side effects and are commonly applied in liver, kidney, and lung malignancies.<\/p>\n<p>Minimally invasive oncology procedures improve patient recovery time and reduce hospitalization compared to conventional surgery. Techniques performed under imaging guidance enable precise tumor targeting, resulting in lower complication rates and improved quality of life.<\/p>\n<p>Role of interventional oncology in multidisciplinary cancer care involves collaboration with oncology, surgery, and radiology teams. It supports personalized treatment planning, especially in patients who are not suitable for surgery, offering effective palliative and curative options.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_89 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-custom ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #ffffff;color:#ffffff\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_Is_Interventional_Oncology_and_What_Position_Does_It_Hold_in_Medicine\" >What Is Interventional Oncology and What Position Does It Hold in Medicine?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_Does_the_Minimally_Invasive_Approach_Provide_for_Interventional_Oncology_Patients\" >What Does the Minimally Invasive Approach Provide for Interventional Oncology Patients?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#Why_Is_Imaging_Technology_Vital_in_Interventional_Oncology_Procedures\" >Why Is Imaging Technology Vital in Interventional Oncology Procedures?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_Is_the_Biopsy_Procedure_for_Cancer_Diagnosis_Performed_by_Interventional_Oncology\" >How Is the Biopsy Procedure for Cancer Diagnosis Performed by Interventional Oncology?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_Is_Tumor_Ablation_Treatment_and_How_Does_Interventional_Oncology_Perform_It\" >What Is Tumor Ablation Treatment and How Does Interventional Oncology Perform It?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#In_Which_Organs_Is_the_Ablation_Method_Successfully_Used\" >In Which Organs Is the Ablation Method Successfully Used?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_Is_a_Tumor_Starved_by_Interventional_Oncology_with_Intravascular_Treatments_TACE\" >How Is a Tumor Starved by Interventional Oncology with Intravascular Treatments (TACE)?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_Does_Interventional_Oncology_Use_Radiation_with_Radioembolization_Y-90_Therapy\" >How Does Interventional Oncology Use Radiation with Radioembolization (Y-90) Therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#Which_Supportive_Procedures_Are_Performed_to_Improve_the_Quality_of_Life_of_Cancer_Patients\" >Which Supportive Procedures Are Performed to Improve the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_and_by_Whom_Are_Treatment_Decisions_Made_in_Interventional_Oncology\" >How and by Whom Are Treatment Decisions Made in Interventional Oncology?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_is_interventional_oncology_and_how_does_it_differ_from_traditional_cancer_treatment\" >What is interventional oncology and how does it differ from traditional cancer treatment?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_types_of_cancers_can_be_treated_with_interventional_oncology_procedures\" >What types of cancers can be treated with interventional oncology procedures?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_do_image-guided_treatments_work_in_interventional_oncology\" >How do image-guided treatments work in interventional oncology?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_are_the_most_common_procedures_performed_in_interventional_oncology\" >What are the most common procedures performed in interventional oncology?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#Who_is_a_suitable_candidate_for_interventional_oncology_treatments\" >Who is a suitable candidate for interventional oncology treatments?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_are_the_advantages_of_interventional_oncology_compared_with_open_surgery\" >What are the advantages of interventional oncology compared with open surgery?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#Can_interventional_oncology_be_combined_with_chemotherapy_or_radiation_therapy\" >Can interventional oncology be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_risks_and_complications_are_associated_with_interventional_oncology_procedures\" >What risks and complications are associated with interventional oncology procedures?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#How_long_does_recovery_take_after_an_interventional_oncology_procedure\" >How long does recovery take after an interventional oncology procedure?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/what-is-interventional-oncology-and-what-does-it-do\/#What_experiences_do_patients_commonly_report_after_interventional_oncology_treatment\" >What experiences do patients commonly report after interventional oncology treatment?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Interventional_Oncology_and_What_Position_Does_It_Hold_in_Medicine\"><\/span>What Is Interventional Oncology and What Position Does It Hold in Medicine?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If we liken cancer treatment to a table, the legs of this table have for many years been surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. However, in recent years, a fourth and very powerful leg has been added to this table: Interventional Oncology. This discipline is the art of performing treatment by using the diagnostic power of radiology. We use imaging modalities such as ultrasound, tomography, or angiography devices like navigation systems (GPS).<\/p>\n<p>These technologies show us the inside of the body, the vessels, the organs, and most importantly, the exact location of the tumor with millimetric precision. Guided by these images, we reach the tumor directly without cutting the skin, entering only through the blood vessels or through the skin with a needle. This is a \u201cpinpoint\u201d treatment. While in traditional methods the entire body may sometimes be exposed to treatment, in our methods the target is only the cancerous tissue. Interventional oncology is sometimes a life-saving alternative when surgery is not possible, and sometimes a powerful companion that enhances the effectiveness of other treatments.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Does_the_Minimally_Invasive_Approach_Provide_for_Interventional_Oncology_Patients\"><\/span>What Does the Minimally Invasive Approach Provide for Interventional Oncology Patients?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You often hear the term \u201cminimally invasive\u201d in medicine. Its meaning is \u201cintervention that causes the least harm.\u201d When treating a patient, we aim to minimize the physical damage and trauma we inflict. In open surgeries, large incisions are required for the surgeon\u2019s hands to work. These incisions prolong the healing process, cause pain, and carry a risk of infection. In contrast, in our procedures the entry point is only the size of a needle hole. This entry point, usually 1\u20132 millimeters, does not even require sutures after the procedure; only a small bandage is applied.<\/p>\n<p>The tangible benefits this approach provides to our patients are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A strong supportive treatment for local masses that have not responded to medical oncological therapies<\/li>\n<li>Very little blood loss<\/li>\n<li>Minimal pain sensation<\/li>\n<li>Low risk of infection<\/li>\n<li>Possibility of rapid discharge<\/li>\n<li>Short recovery time<\/li>\n<li>No scarring from an aesthetic standpoint<\/li>\n<li>Early return to daily life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Especially for elderly patients or those with additional diseases such as heart or lung failure, for whom receiving general anesthesia is risky, these methods are literally a lifeline. Instead of staying in the hospital for days or weeks, being able to return home usually on the evening of the procedure or the next day has an incredibly positive effect on our patients\u2019 morale and motivation.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Is_Imaging_Technology_Vital_in_Interventional_Oncology_Procedures\"><\/span>Why Is Imaging Technology Vital in Interventional Oncology Procedures?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The heart of our work is imaging devices, which are our eyes and ears. A surgeon sees tissue with their eyes and feels it with their hands during surgery. We, on the other hand, see the tissues inside the body on our screens. That is why there is no such thing as a \u201cblind\u201d procedure for us. Devices such as Ultrasonography (US), Computed Tomography (CT), and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provide us with a roadmap.<\/p>\n<p>Thanks to the guidance provided by these devices, we can pass a very thin needle or catheter through the most complex pathways of the body and reach the target directly without damaging critical organs, major vessels, or nerves. For example, reaching a tumor located in the very center of the liver without touching the bile duct passing right next to it requires great skill and technology. Imaging guidance maximizes procedural safety. We see the answer to the question \u201cAre we in the right place?\u201d instantly on the screen. This increases the effectiveness of the treatment while reducing the risk of side effects to almost zero.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_the_Biopsy_Procedure_for_Cancer_Diagnosis_Performed_by_Interventional_Oncology\"><\/span>How Is the Biopsy Procedure for Cancer Diagnosis Performed by Interventional Oncology?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The first rule of fighting cancer is to know the enemy. When a mass is detected, starting treatment without knowing whether it is benign or malignant, and if malignant, what type it is and what its genetic characteristics are, is like shooting randomly in the dark. Therefore, to make a definitive diagnosis, it is essential to take a sample from that tissue, namely to perform a biopsy. In the past, patients sometimes had to undergo surgery even for a biopsy. Today, however, this procedure has become extremely practical in interventional radiology units.<\/p>\n<p>The general steps we follow in the biopsy procedure are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Application of local anesthesia for patient comfort<\/li>\n<li>Determination of the tumor location with an imaging device<\/li>\n<li>Entering through the skin with a special needle<\/li>\n<li>Taking millimetric tissue samples from inside the tumor<\/li>\n<li>Removing the needle and ending the procedure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>We usually use special gun-type needles called \u201cTru-cut.\u201d These needles allow us to obtain thin, thread-like tissue samples from the tumor. These samples are so valuable that they not only establish the name of the cancer, but also enable genetic tests that determine whether targeted therapies, which we call \u201cSmart Drugs,\u201d will work for that patient. In other words, that tiny piece draws the entire treatment roadmap for the patient.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_Tumor_Ablation_Treatment_and_How_Does_Interventional_Oncology_Perform_It\"><\/span>What Is Tumor Ablation Treatment and How Does Interventional Oncology Perform It?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After the diagnosis is made, it is time for treatment. If the tumor is of suitable size and location, it may not be necessary to cut it out of the body. With the method we call \u201cablation,\u201d we can destroy the tumor in its place. When explaining this to my patients, I sometimes use the analogy of \u201ccooking an egg.\u201d Just as an egg changes its structure and solidifies when heated, tumor cells also lose their vitality and die when exposed to a certain level of heat.<\/p>\n<p>In this procedure, under imaging guidance, we place a special needle through the skin into the very center of the tumor. Then we activate the device connected to this needle. Using Radiofrequency (RFA) or Microwave (MWA) energy, we generate high heat at the tip of the needle. This heat destroys the tumor and the surrounding safety margin by burning them. When the procedure is finished, we withdraw the needle. Over time, the body clears that dead tissue, or it remains as harmless scar tissue. There is also the opposite method called \u201cCryoablation,\u201d which is based on killing the tumor by freezing it. The tumor is destroyed by turning it into an ice ball.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Which_Organs_Is_the_Ablation_Method_Successfully_Used\"><\/span>In Which Organs Is the Ablation Method Successfully Used?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Ablation may not be suitable for every cancer type or every stage. However, in appropriate patients, it creates miraculous results. The most frequent and most successful organ of application is unquestionably the liver. Ablation is very effective in primary liver cancers or in metastases that have spread to the liver from organs such as the colon or breast.<\/p>\n<p>Other organs in which ablation is successfully applied are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Lung<\/li>\n<li>Kidney<\/li>\n<li>Bone<\/li>\n<li>Thyroid<\/li>\n<li>Adrenal gland<\/li>\n<li>Soft tissues<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Especially in lung cancer patients who cannot tolerate surgery due to low lung reserve and limited breathing capacity, ablation can be life-saving. Similarly, in kidney tumors, it is possible to preserve the organ by burning only the tumor without removing the entire kidney. In bone metastases, the goal is sometimes not to destroy the tumor but to relieve the unbearable bone pain the patient is suffering from; interrupting nerve endings to stop the pain provides great comfort for the patient.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Is_a_Tumor_Starved_by_Interventional_Oncology_with_Intravascular_Treatments_TACE\"><\/span>How Is a Tumor Starved by Interventional Oncology with Intravascular Treatments (TACE)?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In some cases, tumors are numerous or too large to be treated with ablation. At that point, we change strategy. Instead of hunting the enemy one by one, we decide to cut off its supply routes. Tumors are structures that grow very rapidly and constantly need energy. Therefore, they form new vascular networks to nourish themselves. We use the angiography method, enter through the groin vessel, and advance through the vascular map of the body. Our goal is to find the tiny artery that directly feeds the tumor.<\/p>\n<p>In the \u201cChemoembolization\u201d (TACE) procedure, we advance our catheter tip to the very doorstep of the tumor. From there, we deliver two things: first, a concentrated chemotherapy drug; second, micro-particles that block the vessel. This procedure creates a dual effect.<\/p>\n<p>The effects of TACE on the tumor are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Poisoning with a high-dose drug<\/li>\n<li>Depriving it of oxygen<\/li>\n<li>Cutting off its nutrient supply<\/li>\n<li>Stopping its growth<\/li>\n<li>Causing it to shrink<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Normally, chemotherapy given through the arm spreads throughout the body and causes side effects such as hair loss and severe nausea. In the TACE procedure, since we trap the drug directly in the tumor and also block the vessel, the drug mixes very little with the systemic circulation. Thus, while the patient experiences far fewer of the severe side effects of chemotherapy, the tumor is exposed to a much higher dose of the drug. This method is the standard treatment especially for inoperable liver cancers.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_Interventional_Oncology_Use_Radiation_with_Radioembolization_Y-90_Therapy\"><\/span>How Does Interventional Oncology Use Radiation with Radioembolization (Y-90) Therapy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Radioembolization (TARE), sometimes popularly known as \u201catomic therapy\u201d or \u201cpinpoint irradiation,\u201d is one of the latest marvels of technology. In this method, we again enter through the groin using angiography. However, this time we do not send chemotherapy drugs into the tumor vessel, but millions of microscopic spheres loaded with a radioactive substance (Yttrium-90).<\/p>\n<p>These spheres are so small that they advance into even the finest capillaries within the tumor and lodge there. From where they settle, they emit very powerful radiation over an area of only a few millimeters. In external radiotherapy, radiation beams may affect healthy tissues as they pass through the skin before reaching the tumor. In this method, however, we place the radiation source directly \u201cinside\u201d the tumor itself. In this way, while healthy liver tissue is preserved, the tumor is destroyed by being irradiated from within.<\/p>\n<p>The situations in which radioembolization is most frequently preferred are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tumors resistant to chemotherapy<\/li>\n<li>Very large masses<\/li>\n<li>Patients with portal vein thrombosis<\/li>\n<li>Cases not suitable for surgery<\/li>\n<li>Situations where the TACE procedure is risky<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This method is a kind of \u201cTrojan Horse\u201d tactic. We infiltrate the enemy fortress (the tumor) and start the battle from the inside. Especially in difficult patients in whom TACE cannot be performed due to obstruction of the main liver vessels, this method is our most powerful and sometimes the only option.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_Supportive_Procedures_Are_Performed_to_Improve_the_Quality_of_Life_of_Cancer_Patients\"><\/span>Which Supportive Procedures Are Performed to Improve the Quality of Life of Cancer Patients?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Interventional Oncology does not focus solely on destroying the tumor. For us, the patient is not just a tumor; they are a human being with pain, comfort needs, and quality of life. Cancer treatment is a long and challenging marathon. Making the patient\u2019s life easier during this process is also our duty. For example, in patients who will receive continuous chemotherapy, arm veins may thin out and rupture over time, turning venous access into torture.<\/p>\n<p>To prevent this, we perform the \u201cPort Catheter\u201d procedure. We place a small chamber (port) under the skin, usually in the chest area. This chamber is connected to a central vein. The patient can receive all treatments and have blood drawn through this port without any pain.<\/p>\n<p>The advantages provided by a port catheter for patients are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Elimination of the struggle to find a vein<\/li>\n<li>No bruising on the arms<\/li>\n<li>Safe administration of medications<\/li>\n<li>Reduced risk of infection<\/li>\n<li>No interference with bathing<\/li>\n<li>Usable for many years<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, in advanced-stage cancers, tumors may sometimes compress the bile ducts or urinary tracts. In this case, the patient becomes jaundiced, experiences itching, or the kidneys approach failure. We use non-surgical methods again, entering only through needle-sized openings, to place a \u201ccatheter\u201d or \u201cstent\u201d into these blocked pathways. By opening the obstruction, we restore bile or urine flow. Even if these procedures do not eliminate the cancer, they save the patient\u2019s organs, prevent intoxication, and allow them to spend their remaining life with much higher quality. Pain management is equally important; relieving severe cancer-related pain by performing nerve blocks and easing the patient\u2019s suffering is one of the most humane aspects of the art of medicine.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_and_by_Whom_Are_Treatment_Decisions_Made_in_Interventional_Oncology\"><\/span>How and by Whom Are Treatment Decisions Made in Interventional Oncology?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Cancer treatment is a process too complex for a single doctor to decide alone. The mentality of \u201cI did it, it\u2019s done\u201d has no place in modern medicine. Each patient\u2019s disease is unique like a fingerprint and requires individualized planning. Therefore, there is a structure called the \u201cMultidisciplinary Tumor Board.\u201d In this board, the medical oncologist (drug therapy specialist), radiation oncologist (radiation therapy specialist), surgeon, pathologist, and we interventional radiologists gather around a table.<\/p>\n<p>We collectively evaluate the patient\u2019s imaging studies, laboratory tests, biopsy results, age, comorbidities, and even social situation. We seek an answer, through collective reasoning, to the question: \u201cIs the best option for this patient surgery, medication, or ablation?\u201d As interventional radiologists, at this table we present minimally invasive options for patients who are not suitable for surgery or who will not benefit from surgery.<\/p>\n<p>The goals of the board are to ensure:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Selecting the most appropriate treatment<\/li>\n<li>Preventing loss of time<\/li>\n<li>Avoiding unnecessary procedures<\/li>\n<li>Approaching the patient holistically<\/li>\n<li>Prolonging survival<\/li>\n<li>Preserving quality of life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Sometimes we start treatment and shrink the tumor, and then the surgeon operates. Sometimes surgery is not possible, and we step in to control the disease. This team effort is of vital importance for the patient\u2019s success.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"accordion\">\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2187683033\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2187683033-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-is-interventional-oncology-and-how-does-it-differ-from-traditional-cancer-treatment?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2187683033-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_interventional_oncology_and_how_does_it_differ_from_traditional_cancer_treatment\"><\/span>What is interventional oncology and how does it differ from traditional cancer treatment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2187683033-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2187683033-label\">\n\t\t\t\nInterventional oncology is a specialized field that uses image-guided, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cancer. It often complements surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy while reducing recovery times.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-413840370\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-413840370-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-types-of-cancers-can-be-treated-with-interventional-oncology-procedures?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-413840370-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_types_of_cancers_can_be_treated_with_interventional_oncology_procedures\"><\/span>What types of cancers can be treated with interventional oncology procedures?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-413840370-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-413840370-label\">\n\t\t\t\nInterventional oncology is commonly used for liver, kidney, lung, bone, and certain metastatic cancers. Eligibility depends on tumor size, location, overall health, and the goals of the patient\u2019s treatment plan.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2673369246\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2673369246-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-do-image-guided-treatments-work-in-interventional-oncology?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2673369246-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_do_image-guided_treatments_work_in_interventional_oncology\"><\/span>How do image-guided treatments work in interventional oncology?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2673369246-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2673369246-label\">\n\t\t\t\nSpecialists use imaging technologies such as CT scans, ultrasound, MRI, or fluoroscopy to guide needles and catheters directly to tumors. This precision helps target cancerous tissue while minimizing damage to healthy structures.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-968016778\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-968016778-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-are-the-most-common-procedures-performed-in-interventional-oncology?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-968016778-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_most_common_procedures_performed_in_interventional_oncology\"><\/span>What are the most common procedures performed in interventional oncology?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-968016778-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-968016778-label\">\n\t\t\t\nCommon treatments include tumor ablation, embolization, chemoembolization, radioembolization, targeted biopsies, and pain-management procedures. These techniques are designed to control tumors and improve patient outcomes with minimal invasiveness.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-1143127533\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-1143127533-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-who-is-a-suitable-candidate-for-interventional-oncology-treatments?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-1143127533-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_is_a_suitable_candidate_for_interventional_oncology_treatments\"><\/span>Who is a suitable candidate for interventional oncology treatments?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-1143127533-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-1143127533-label\">\n\t\t\t\nPatients who are not ideal surgical candidates, have localized tumors, require symptom relief, or need additional cancer control measures may benefit from interventional oncology after evaluation by a multidisciplinary cancer team.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-988805456\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-988805456-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-are-the-advantages-of-interventional-oncology-compared-with-open-surgery?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-988805456-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_advantages_of_interventional_oncology_compared_with_open_surgery\"><\/span>What are the advantages of interventional oncology compared with open surgery?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-988805456-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-988805456-label\">\n\t\t\t\nInterventional oncology procedures generally involve smaller incisions, shorter hospital stays, less discomfort, and faster recovery. Many treatments can be performed with minimal disruption to a patient\u2019s daily routine.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-545321179\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-545321179-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-can-interventional-oncology-be-combined-with-chemotherapy-or-radiation-therapy?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-545321179-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_interventional_oncology_be_combined_with_chemotherapy_or_radiation_therapy\"><\/span>Can interventional oncology be combined with chemotherapy or radiation therapy?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-545321179-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-545321179-label\">\n\t\t\t\nYes, interventional oncology is often integrated with other cancer treatments. Combining therapies may improve tumor control, enhance treatment effectiveness, and provide a more personalized approach to cancer management.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2643716726\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2643716726-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-risks-and-complications-are-associated-with-interventional-oncology-procedures?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2643716726-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_risks_and_complications_are_associated_with_interventional_oncology_procedures\"><\/span>What risks and complications are associated with interventional oncology procedures?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2643716726-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2643716726-label\">\n\t\t\t\nAlthough generally considered minimally invasive, risks may include bleeding, infection, pain, damage to nearby structures, or procedure-specific complications. The exact risk profile varies depending on the treatment performed.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2744415902\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2744415902-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-how-long-does-recovery-take-after-an-interventional-oncology-procedure?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2744415902-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_does_recovery_take_after_an_interventional_oncology_procedure\"><\/span>How long does recovery take after an interventional oncology procedure?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2744415902-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2744415902-label\">\n\t\t\t\nRecovery is often quicker than with major surgery, and many patients return to normal activities within days. The timeline depends on the type of procedure, overall health, and the complexity of the cancer being treated.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n\t<div id=\"accordion-2969538149\" class=\"accordion-item\">\n\t\t<a id=\"accordion-2969538149-label\" class=\"accordion-title plain\" href=\"#accordion-item-what-experiences-do-patients-commonly-report-after-interventional-oncology-treatment?\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-2969538149-content\">\n\t\t\t<button class=\"toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle\"><i class=\"icon-angle-down\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i><\/button>\n\t\t\t<h3 class=\"accordion-heading\" role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"3\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_experiences_do_patients_commonly_report_after_interventional_oncology_treatment\"><\/span>What experiences do patients commonly report after interventional oncology treatment?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<div id=\"accordion-2969538149-content\" class=\"accordion-inner\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-2969538149-label\">\n\t\t\t\nMany patients appreciate the minimally invasive nature of these procedures and report manageable recovery periods. Experiences vary, but symptom improvement, reduced treatment burden, and enhanced quality of life are commonly noted.<br \/>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Interventional oncology is a medical subspecialty that uses image-guided, minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat cancer. It focuses on targeting tumors directly with precision techniques such as ablation, embolization, and biopsy while preserving surrounding healthy tissues. Image-guided cancer treatments such as tumor ablation and transarterial chemoembolization provide localized therapeutic effects by using radiologic imaging [&#8230;]\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":13885,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[320],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13886","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-treatments"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13886","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13886"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13886\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16604,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13886\/revisions\/16604"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13885"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13886"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13886"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ozgurkilickesmez.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13886"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}