The Role of Interventional Radiology in Diseases of the Hepatobiliary System

Interventional radiology is a safe, less invasive therapeutic modality as compared with open surgery in the treatment of hepatobiliary diseases with less recovery time and significant side effects or damage to the adjacent normal tissues. Patients who have suffered hepatobiliary problems benefit from interventional radiology (IR) techniques. First-line modern imaging modalities, such as duplex ultrasonography, 3 and 4 phasic CT scan, and high-resolution MRI, have revolutionized the diagnosis and management of hepatobiliary diseases. Pioneers in this field have performed IR procedures, such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB), biliary stent, and embolotherapy, for the hepatobilliary system. Recently, interventional radiologists, in cooperation with gastrohepatologists, have even further promoted development of this field of medicine. For management of patients, we need collaboration between internists, gastroenterologists, oncologists, surgeons and interventional radiologists. This multidisciplinary management requires attendance of several health service providers. This review provides an overview of the interventional procedures for patients with hepatobiliary problems.