Patient FAQs
1. What is a radiologist?
A radiologist is a highly skilled doctor specialising in the field of radiology. Like other specialists such as surgeons, physicians, and paediatricians, they have sat for exams at the end of their training and are registered with the Health Professions Council as specialists. Their expertise lies in imaging administration and interpretation. Some radiologists study further and gain specialised skills in specific areas of radiology such as neuroradiology, body imaging, pediatrics imaging, and musculoskeletal imaging.
2. What does a radiologist do?
The radiologist's role is to assist other specialists in diagnosing or confirming suspected clinical conditions, using X-rays, Ultrasound, Mammograms, CT Scans, and MRI scans.
3. What makes an interventional radiologist different from a radiologist?
The essential skills of an interventional radiologist are in diagnostic image interpretation and the manipulation of needles and the use of fine catheter tubes and wires to navigate around the body under imaging control. Interventional radiologists are doctors who are trained in radiology and interventional therapy. No other specialty possesses this unique combination of skills!
4. What is the focus of interventional radiology?
Interventional radiology is used to treat diseases (such as cancers, liver or bile duct diseases, uterine fibroids, peripheral vascular diseases, and disorders of circulation), perform biopsies, and carry out pain-relieving procedures with minimally invasive techniques.
5. What are the benefits of interventional radiology?
Rather than the large incisions that come with traditional surgery, needles and catheters are used to perform these procedures, making them minimally intrusive. This approach reduces the risks associated with major surgery and can help aid faster recovery.
6. What is intravenous contrast?
IV contrast is an iodine based colourless liquid/ dye which is injected into the body intravenously via an IV line. This will be placed into the vein by either a nursing sister or radiographer trained to do the procedure.
7. What is cortisone?
Cortisone is the name used to describe a group of drugs commonly known as corticosteroids. The types of cortisone used at Lake, Smit and Partners include Celestone (Betamethasone), Decasone and Depot-Medrol (Methylprednisolone). Cortisone is used to treat pain in various parts of the body where inflammation is felt to be the cause of this pain. The reason why cortisone is effective in treating such pain is because it is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Cortisone is not an illegal steroid medication, such as those steroids used by some disqualified body builders and athletes.
8. How do we determine our fees?
Our fees reflect the service, training, and dedication of our professional staff and are in line with those seen in other quality radiology practices that provide the latest technology and state of the art equipment, as well as in accordance with medical aid tariffs and guidelines.