Abstract No. 384 - History and physical exam for the interventional radiologist: key clinical assessments and decision making prior to and following common IR procedures

Abstract

The purpose of this educational exhibit is to explore pertinent history and physical exam findings when an interventional radiologist initially assesses a patient. We will explore key pre-procedural history questions and clinical exam findings universal to all patients being assessed by an interventional radiologist. We will also identify pre-procedure findings that will help guide clinical decision making and post-procedure follow-up exam findings to assess for treatment success through specific common clinical cases seen by interventional radiologists. With the evolution of interventional radiology as a new clinical specialty, history and physical exam findings are important for interventional radiologists to make clinical decisions both prior to and following intervention. These findings will help interventional radiologists tailor treatment options, identify procedure success and decide on the need for re-intervention. 1.Universal risk factor assessment prior to any IR procedure (i.e. renal failure, bleeding diathesis, contraindication to sedation or contrast).2.Important history and physical exam findings for common interventional radiology procedures through specific clinical cases including, but not limited to bleeding interventions, drainage procedures (genitourinary, biliary, abscess), dialysis intervention, TIPS placement and venous access procedures.3.Pertinent questions (history) and physical exam findings post-treatment to identify common IR procedure-related complications (i.e obstructed drains, leakage, pseudoanuerysm, fistula, etc.).4.Key post-procedure history and physical exam findings to assess treatment success and possible need for re-intervention. History and physical exam findings are important tools for an interventional radiologist when deciding on clinical management and treatment options during initial assessment of a patient. In addition, post-treatment follow-up also helps interventional radiologists identify common early complications, assess treatment success and need for subsequent intervention.