Interventional Radiology
Vascular & Interventional Radiology, also known as VIR or IR, is a medical discipline that focuses on the image-guided treatment of medical conditions. By harnessing advanced imaging technology (ultrasound, fluoroscopy, computed tomography, MRI, and others), IR physicians can treat complex conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer in a minimally invasive fashion, often obviating the need for open surgery. This minimally invasive approach typically results in a shorter recovery time, a reduced length of hospital stays, and a lower risk of complications.
The Interventional Radiology division at LA General is staffed by seven board-certified interventional radiologists and one nurse practitioner. With a patient-centric approach, the division offers an outpatient clinic and inpatient consultation services to facilitate comprehensive assessments and shared decision-making. The LA General Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Residents receive an integral part of their education and training within the IR division. Our cohesive team of nurses, technologists, and physicians is committed to delivering excellent and compassionate care that enhances patient outcomes and improves quality of life.
Conditions we treat
Biliary obstruction and Biliary leaks
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (Enlarged Prostate)
Cancer-related pain
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Foreign body retrieval
Internal bleeding
IVC filter placement and retrieval
Kidney cancer
Liver cancer
Lung cancer
Lymphatic disorders
Malnutrition/feeding tube placement
Mesenteric ischemia
Peripheral vascular disease (PAD/PVD)
Portal hypertension
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
Renal artery stenosis
Renal failure/Dialysis access
Thyroid disorders
Trauma interventions
Urinary obstruction
Uterine fibroids
Varicoceles/Pelvic venous disorders
Varicose veins/Venous insufficiency
Vascular anomalies
Vertebral/spine and sacral fractures
Rotation Sites
Los Angeles General Medical Center (LA General)
With roots tracing back to the original LA County Hospital, which opened in 1933, the current modern facility opened in 2010. Located in Boyle Heights near downtown Los Angeles, LA General is one of the largest public hospitals and medical training centers in the country.
- 600-bed public teaching hospital
- One of the busiest emergency departments in the U.S.
- Level 1 Trauma Center
- One of three burn centers in LA County
- Comprehensive services including medical, surgical, emergency/trauma, obstetrical, gynecological, pediatric, and psychiatric care for all age groups
- Three IR suites, including one biplane suite, dedicated to body and neuro interventions
- Hybrid OR shared between surgical specialties and interventional radiology
Keck Hospital of USC
Opened in 1991, Keck Hospital is a tertiary referral center with active heart, liver and kidney transplant programs, located just two blocks from LA General
Key Features:
- 400-bed private teaching hospital
- State-of-the-art imaging technology, including a 7-tesla research MRI
- Three IR suites, including one biplane suite
- Exposure to management of complex post-surgical and transplant-related complications
USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center
Opened in 1983, the Norris Cancer Center was one of the first eight comprehensive cancer centers in the United States. It is situated between LA General and Keck Hospital.
Key Features:
- 60-bed dedicated cancer hospital
- Exposure to the evolving role of IR in advanced oncologic care
