At St. Dominic Health, innovation meets compassion in a specialty that’s quietly changing lives every day: interventional radiology.
“It’s more than advanced technology,” says Scott McPherson, MD, interventional radiologist and co-medical director of St. Dominic Comprehensive Stroke Center. “It’s a pathway to better outcomes.”
What is Interventional Radiology?
“Interventional Radiology has evolved into a specialty of medicine that utilizes imaging guidance to perform surgical procedures on patients,” Dr. McPherson explains. “It generally uses minimally invasive techniques.”
By harnessing real-time imaging, interventional radiologists can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions without the need for large incisions or traditional surgery.
A Wide Range of Life-Saving Procedures
As a regional referral center for complex cases, St. Dominic Hospital offers a comprehensive suite of interventional radiology procedures.
“Our procedure types reflect that,” Dr. McPherson says. “Procedures range from tumor biopsies; chest, abdomen, pelvic drainage; to tumor embolization, acute stroke procedures, vascular stents, treatment of massive pulmonary embolism, to embolization of bleeding, including brain bleeds.”
This wide scope of care allows patients to receive targeted treatments with fewer risks and faster recoveries.
Patient Benefits of Minimally Invasive, Image-Guided Care
For patients, the advantages of interventional radiology are clear.
“We avoid the problems of surgical incisions, the need for general anesthesia and can focally direct treatment with imaging,” Dr. McPherson explains. “We cannot fix everything, but we try.”
This approach often means shorter hospital stays, less pain and quicker returns to daily life.
Revolutionizing Stroke Care
Stroke care is an area where interventional radiology has made groundbreaking strides.
“Over the last decade, stroke treatment has undergone a revolution never seen in medicine,” Dr. McPherson says. “With the advent of acute interventional radiology treatment coupled with improved lytic medical treatment, outcomes have radically improved.”
Thanks to a statewide stroke network, time-sensitive interventions are making a real difference. “We are beginning to win!” he adds.
Time is Brain: The Critical Importance of Fast Stroke Response
Dr. McPherson emphasizes the urgency of stroke response with a simple message: time is brain.
Every minute counts, and calling 911 immediately connects patients to EMS teams who are expertly trained in stroke care and serve as the essential entry point into the stroke network. Recognizing symptoms and acting quickly can change outcomes dramatically.
At St. Dominic’s Comprehensive Stroke Center, this decisive, time-sensitive approach translates into exceptional results.
Dr. McPherson’s confidence is rooted in experience. Outcomes speak for themselves, and the hospital’s commitment to excellence ensures patients receive the best possible care when it matters most.
Weekly Miracles: The Heart of Our Mission
When reflecting on memorable patient stories, Dr. McPherson says they are a regular occurrence.
“Every single week, we witness the extraordinary,” he says. “Patients arrive facing dire circumstances, yet many walk out restored — almost as if nothing happened. It’s a privilege that never loses its wonder.”
These frequent, life-changing recoveries are a testament to the profound difference interventional radiology makes for patients and their loved ones, inspiring every member of the care team to pursue excellence with renewed purpose.
Motivation and Dedication
Dr. McPherson describes his daily motivation simply: “I am a humble servant of God. My wife, my family, my partners, the hospital, but most importantly, my staff keep me motivated. We love what we do.”
It’s a deeply personal connection that fuels his dedication to every patient.
Innovation at the Core: The Future of Interventional Radiology
Looking ahead, Dr. McPherson is optimistic about how technology will continue to advance patient care.
“New technology drives the process. Better equipment, better outcomes.”
At St. Dominic Health and across our health system, this commitment to innovation ensures that patients continue to benefit from the latest in life-saving care.
