When to Ask About Minimally Invasive Treatment Options

By Vista Interventional Care Center

Modern medicine offers more choices than ever for treating common health conditions. Many procedures that once required surgery can now be performed through tiny incisions using image guidance. These techniques—known as minimally invasive or image-guided procedures—allow physicians to treat a variety of issues with less pain, less recovery time, and no hospital stay.

What Does “Minimally Invasive” Mean?

At its core, minimally invasive care uses advanced imaging (like ultrasound, CT, or X-ray guidance) to help physicians reach problem areas through small tubes or catheters rather than open incisions. The goal is to treat the condition while minimizing impact on surrounding tissues.

Common Conditions Treated This Way

Many people are surprised to learn that minimally invasive care can help manage or treat:

• Uterine fibroids – Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) can relieve symptoms without hysterectomy.
• Prostate enlargement (BPH) – Prostate Artery Embolization (PAE) can improve urinary symptoms.
• Spine compression fractures – Kyphoplasty restores height and reduces pain after a fracture.
• Varicose veins – Image-guided vein treatments close or remove damaged veins with little downtime.
• Blocked arteries – Angioplasty and stenting can restore blood flow and prevent complications.

What to Expect

Most image-guided procedures are performed in an outpatient setting. Patients typically go home the same day and return to normal activity within days. Because these treatments use only small incisions, scarring and recovery time are usually minimal.

The Bottom Line

Understanding your options is an important part of your care.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a condition that may benefit from a minimally invasive approach, talk with your doctor or an interventional radiologist to learn what might be right for you.