Name of the Procedure:

Anesthesia for Therapeutic Interventional Radiological Procedures Involving the Arterial System (Intracranial, Intracardiac, or Aortic)

Summary

This procedure involves administering anesthesia to patients undergoing therapeutic interventional radiology treatments targeting the arteries in the brain (intracranial), heart (intracardiac), or the aorta (the main artery from the heart). The anesthesia ensures the patient remains comfortable and pain-free during the specialized radiological intervention.

Purpose

• To manage complex arterial conditions within the brain, heart, or aorta.
• Goals include pain relief, patient immobility during the procedure, and maintaining vital functions.

Indications

• Aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), or blockages in the brain.
• Cardiac conditions requiring catheter-based treatments.
• Aortic aneurysms or dissections needing interventional repair.

Preparation

• Patients typically need to fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to certain medications, especially anticoagulants, may be necessary.
• Pre-procedure assessments may include blood tests, ECG, and imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is positioned on the procedure table.
2. An intravenous (IV) line is established for anesthesia administration.
3. The anesthesiologist administers general anesthesia or conscious sedation, monitored closely for vital signs.
4. The interventional radiologist performs the procedure using fluoroscopy or other imaging technology.
5. The anesthesiologist ensures the patient remains stable throughout the procedure.

Duration

The procedure typically ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on complexity.

Setting

Usually performed in a hospital's interventional radiology suite or operating room.

Personnel

• Anesthesiologist
• Interventional radiologist
• Radiology technicians
• Nursing staff

Risks and Complications

• Common: Nausea, vomiting, headache, minor bleeding at the IV site.
• Rare: Allergic reactions to anesthesia, cardiovascular complications, infection, stroke, or respiratory issues.

Benefits

• Pain-free experience during complex arterial interventional treatments.
• Enhanced precision and safety for delicate vascular procedures.
• Conditions are addressed effectively with minimal patient discomfort.

Recovery

• Close monitoring in a recovery area post-procedure.
• Instructions regarding activity levels, wound care, and medication adjustments.
• Follow-up appointments for progress assessment and further care.

Alternatives

• Open surgical procedures (with larger incisions and potentially longer recovery).
• Medical management with medications (less invasive but may not be as effective).
• Pros and cons should be discussed with the healthcare team based on individual conditions.

Patient Experience

• The patient will be unconscious or sedated, ensuring no pain or memory of the procedure.
• After awakening, patients might feel drowsy with potential mild discomfort at the IV site.
• Adequate pain management strategies, including medications and supportive care, will be provided.