Kelowna General Hospital has a new interventional radiology suite

A new interventional radiology (IR) suite has opened at Kelowna General Hospital (KGH).

This new suite is designed to offer minimally invasive procedures for the diagnosis and treatment of various medical conditions, which is expected to benefit patients throughout the Interior Health (IH) region.

"Interventional radiology is a transformative medical discipline that merges cutting-edge imaging technology with minimally invasive procedures, empowering physicians to precisely target and treat diseases with unparalleled precision and effectiveness," said Dr. Kevin Beckner, the medical imaging medical director of IH.

“Advancements in IR have significantly reduced risk, pain, recovery and the use of general anesthesia, while also providing a less expensive option to surgery or other alternatives.”

The IR suite is designed to assist with:

• Problems with blood vessels, such as blood clots
• Cancer care
• Inserting intravenous tubes deep into the body to deliver medicine
• Procedures to stop internal bleeding
• Supporting patients with kidney disease

Since the installation of the previous IR equipment at KGH in 2009, the practice of IR has evolved, with new procedures now being performed on an outpatient basis, allowing fewer patients to require a hospital stay.

Equipped with the latest and most advanced IR technology, the new IR suite represents a significant leap forward in patient care and sets the stage for future advancements in this type of service.

“There are many good stories to share about how the community continues to support advancements at KGH, and this is one of them,” said Allison Young, the CEO of KGH Foundation. “The opening of the new IR suite is great news.”

“It means access to state-of-the-art equipment to provide quality care to patients.”

To fund the $9.6 million suite, KGH Foundation contributed $4.7 million, the Province contributed $3.1 million through IH, and the Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District contributed $1.8 million.

"The unveiling of the new IR suite is a significant leap forward in patient care at KGH, using precise imaging to administer effective treatments," said Gord Milsom, the vice-chair of Central Okanagan Regional Hospital District.

“We know this suite will deliver high-quality medical services, helping prevent disease and improve quality of life for residents within our Central Okanagan community.”