Interventional Oncology
Learn about Interventional Oncology in Singapore, using minimally invasive, image-guided treatments for selected tumours and cancer. Explore tumour ablation, embolisation, biopsy and more provided by Dr. Manish Taneja from the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic.
Interventional Oncology in Singapore
Minimally Invasive, Image-Guided Cancer Care
Interventional oncology is a specialised area of minimally invasive medicine that uses image-guided procedures to diagnose, treat or manage selected cancers and cancer-related complications.
Using techniques such as angiography, ultrasound and CT guidance, interventional specialists can access tumours and other targeted areas through small needles or catheters rather than conventional open surgery.
Depending on the patient’s diagnosis and treatment plan, interventional oncology may include tumour ablation, tumour embolisation, image-guided biopsy, vascular access for cancer therapy, vascular interventions and procedures to help manage cancer-related pain.
At the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, these procedures are planned around each patient’s diagnosis, imaging findings, overall health and treatment goals.
Care is led by Dr. Manish Taneja, providing specialist image-guided and interventional expertise with a continuum of care under one roof.
Treatment Overview
| Also Known As | Interventional cancer treatment, image-guided cancer treatment |
|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Minimally invasive, image-guided treatment |
| Used For | Selected tumours and cancer-related conditions |
| Specialty | Interventional oncology |
| Treatment Goal | Diagnose, treat or support the management of selected tumours using minimally invasive techniques |
| How It Works | Uses imaging, specialised needles or catheters to target tumours or their blood supply |
| Common Procedures | Tumour ablation, tumour embolisation, image-guided biopsy and vascular access |
| Imaging Guidance | CT, ultrasound, fluoroscopy or other appropriate imaging |
| Anaesthesia | Depends on the individual procedure |
| Follow-Up | Clinical assessment and imaging may be recommended |
| Performed By | Dr. Manish Taneja, dual-trained neurointerventional and peripheral vascular intervention specialist |
What Is Interventional Oncology?
Interventional oncology is a specialised field of medicine that uses minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat selected tumours.
The approach combines knowledge of tumour biology, vascular anatomy and image-guided intervention.
Rather than accessing a tumour through open surgery, an interventional specialist can use imaging to guide a needle or catheter precisely to the area being treated.
Depending on the tumour and treatment objective, procedures may:
- Destroy tumour tissue using controlled heat, freezing or other energy
- Reduce or block blood flow supplying a tumour
- Obtain tissue samples for diagnosis
- Provide access for cancer treatment or supportive care
- Help manage selected cancer-related symptoms
Interventional oncology does not replace every form of cancer treatment.
Instead, it provides additional minimally invasive treatment options that may be used as part of an individual's overall cancer care.
Interventional Oncology Treatments
The specific procedure depends on the type, location and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's overall treatment plan.
| Treatment | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Tumour Embolisation | Reduces or blocks blood flow to selected tumours |
| Tumour Ablation | Uses controlled energy to destroy targeted tumour tissue |
| Image-Guided Biopsy | Obtains tissue to confirm and identify the type of cancer |
| Cancer Therapy Vascular Access | Provides reliable vascular access for chemotherapy and other cancer treatments |
| Vascular Interventions | Treats selected blood vessel complications associated with cancer |
| Cancer Pain Management | Uses targeted injections or nerve blocks to help relieve cancer-related pain |
How Does Interventional Oncology Work?
Using Imaging to Precisely Target Tumours
Interventional oncology procedures are guided by medical imaging to help the specialist accurately identify and treat the target area.
Depending on the procedure, imaging may include:
- Computed tomography (CT)
- Ultrasound
- Fluoroscopy
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Other specialised vascular or cross-sectional imaging
A treatment may involve inserting a specialised needle directly into a tumour or guiding a thin catheter through the blood vessels towards the tumour or its blood supply. The specific technique depends on the tumour's size, location, type and relationship with surrounding organs and blood vessels.
Because treatment is performed through a small skin puncture rather than a large surgical incision in many cases, selected patients may be able to undergo treatment with less invasive access. Depending on the patient's needs, an interventional oncology procedure may be used to:
- Obtain tissue for diagnosis
- Destroy selected tumour tissue
- Reduce the blood supply to a tumour
- Control tumour-related bleeding
- Provide vascular access for cancer treatment
- Treat certain vascular complications caused by cancer
- Help manage cancer-related pain
Interventional Oncology Treatments
A Range of Image-Guided Treatment Options
Interventional oncology encompasses several different procedures. The most appropriate approach depends on the tumour and the patient's overall treatment plan.
Tumour Ablation
Directly Treating Selected Tumour Tissue
Tumour ablation uses controlled energy to destroy targeted tumour tissue.
A specialised needle or probe is guided into the tumour using imaging such as CT or ultrasound. Energy is then delivered directly to the targeted area to destroy the treated tumour tissue.
Common tumour ablation techniques include radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), cryoablation and irreversible electroporation (IRE).
Tumour ablation may be considered for selected tumours depending on their size, location, type and relationship with surrounding structures.
Tumour Embolisation
Reducing the Blood Supply to Selected Tumours
Tumour embolisation is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces or blocks the blood supply to a selected tumour.
A thin catheter is guided through the blood vessels towards the arteries supplying the tumour normally through the groin or wrist area. Small embolic materials are then delivered into selected tumour-feeding vessels.
Depending on the individual situation, embolisation may be used to reduce tumour blood flow, control tumour-related bleeding or support another treatment.
Tumour embolisation is appropriate only for selected tumours with a suitable blood supply.
Image-Guided Biopsy
Obtaining Tissue to Confirm a Cancer Diagnosis
A biopsy involves obtaining a small sample of tissue so that it can be examined and analysed.
An image-guided biopsy uses imaging to help the specialist accurately guide a needle to the area requiring sampling.
The tissue obtained can help confirm a diagnosis and identify the type and characteristics of a tumour.
This information can be important when determining the most appropriate treatment plan.
Image-guided biopsy may be considered when a tissue diagnosis is required and the targeted area can be safely accessed using image guidance.
Cancer Therapy Vascular Access
Reliable Access for Cancer Treatment
Some cancer treatments require repeated access to the bloodstream.
Interventional procedures can provide more durable vascular access, helping patients receive chemotherapy and other treatments without repeated peripheral needle injections.
Port-A-Cath Insertion
A Port-A-Cath, also known as an implanted port, is a small device placed beneath the skin and connected to a catheter that enters a large central vein.
It can provide longer-term vascular access for patients requiring repeated intravenous cancer treatment.
PICC Line Placement
A peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) is a thin catheter inserted through a vein in the arm and advanced towards a large central vein near the heart.
A PICC can provide central venous access for selected patients receiving chemotherapy and other intravenous treatments.
The most appropriate type of vascular access depends on the patient's treatment plan, expected duration of therapy and individual circumstances.
Vascular Interventions
Managing Selected Blood Vessel Complications Associated With Cancer
Cancer can sometimes affect nearby blood vessels or cause complications involving the vascular system.
Interventional vascular procedures can provide minimally invasive treatment for selected vascular problems.
Depending on the situation, procedures may be used to:
- Control bleeding associated with a tumour
- Reduce blood flow to a bleeding tumour
- Treat selected blood vessel blockages
- Restore blood flow through an affected vessel
- Manage certain vascular complications caused by tumour growth
These procedures are generally considered according to the patient's clinical circumstances and may have a palliative or supportive role.
The appropriate intervention depends on the location and nature of the vascular problem.
Cancer Pain Management
Minimally Invasive Approaches to Cancer-Related Pain
Cancer and its treatment can sometimes cause persistent or difficult-to-control pain.
Interventional pain procedures may provide another option when conventional pain management does not provide sufficient relief or when a more targeted approach is appropriate.
Depending on the source and location of the pain, injections or nerve blocks may be used to target specific pain pathways. These procedures are designed to help manage symptoms and improve comfort rather than treat the underlying cancer itself.
Your specialist will assess the cause and location of your pain before determining whether an interventional pain procedure may be appropriate.
Tumour Ablation Techniques
Choosing the Right Ablation Approach
Different tumour ablation technologies work in different ways.
| Technique | How It Works | Treatment Type |
|---|---|---|
| Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) | Uses radiofrequency energy to generate controlled heat | Thermal |
| Microwave Ablation | Uses microwave energy to generate heat within the target tissue | Thermal |
| Cryoablation | Uses controlled freezing and thawing to destroy targeted tissue | Freezing-based |
| Irreversible Electroporation (IRE) | Uses electrical pulses to create permanent pores in cell membranes | Non-thermal |
No single ablation technique is suitable for every tumour.
The choice depends on factors such as tumour type, size, location, accessibility and its relationship with nearby organs, blood vessels and other structures.
What Types of Tumours Can Be Treated?
Individualised Treatment Based on Tumour Characteristics
Interventional oncology may be considered for selected tumours in different parts of the body.
Depending on the individual circumstances, image-guided procedures may be used for:
- Liver tumours
- Kidney tumours
- Lung tumours
- Bone tumours
- Soft tissue tumours
- Selected other solid tumours
Treatment suitability depends on the tumour's type, size, number, location and relationship with surrounding structures.
Your specialist will review your imaging and medical history before determining whether an interventional treatment may be appropriate.
When Might Interventional Oncology Be Considered?
Interventional oncology may be considered at different stages of a patient's cancer journey.
Depending on the individual situation, an interventional procedure may be used for:
- Confirming a cancer diagnosis
- Obtaining tissue for treatment planning
- Treating selected tumours
- Reducing tumour blood supply
- Controlling tumour-related bleeding
- Providing vascular access for cancer therapy
- Managing selected cancer-related vascular complications
- Helping relieve cancer-related pain
Interventional oncology does not replace all forms of cancer treatment.
Instead, these procedures can form part of an individualised treatment plan alongside other appropriate cancer therapies.
Interventional Oncology and Multidisciplinary Cancer Care
Minimally Invasive Treatment as Part of a Wider Cancer Plan
Interventional oncology can be integrated with other forms of cancer treatment. Depending on the individual diagnosis, treatment may be coordinated with:
- Medical oncology
- Surgical oncology
- Radiation oncology
- Radiology
- Pathology
- Other specialist cancer services
An interventional procedure may be used before another treatment, alongside another treatment or as an alternative to more invasive treatment in selected circumstances.
The aim is to determine where minimally invasive intervention may provide value within the patient's overall cancer care pathway.
Access to a Wider Hospital Environment
Specialist Interventional Care Within Mount Alvernia Hospital
The Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic is located within Mount Alvernia Hospital, providing patients with access to the wider hospital environment and its medical facilities when additional investigations, specialist services or hospital-based care are required.
This setting allows patients undergoing interventional oncology treatment to benefit from the facilities and support available within a hospital environment, alongside specialist image-guided treatment provided by the clinic.
Depending on individual needs, access to the wider hospital environment may support further diagnostic assessment, medical investigations, treatment and ongoing care as part of the patient's overall healthcare journey.
Potential Benefits of Interventional Oncology
Minimally Invasive, Image-Guided Treatment
For appropriately selected patients, interventional oncology may offer several potential benefits.
Minimally Invasive Access
Many procedures are performed through a small skin puncture using a specialised needle or catheter rather than open surgery.
Precise Image Guidance
Imaging helps the specialist identify and target the tumour or its blood supply while monitoring treatment.
Localised Treatment
Selected techniques allow treatment to be directed specifically towards a tumour or the vessels supplying it.
Multiple Treatment Options
Different techniques can be considered depending on the tumour and treatment objective.
Can Complement Other Cancer Treatments
Interventional procedures may form part of a broader multidisciplinary cancer treatment strategy.
It is important to remember: Every tumour is different. The potential benefits of interventional oncology depend on the tumour type, size, location, stage and the patient's overall health and treatment goals.
What Are the Potential Risks and Limitations?
Understanding the Risks
Interventional oncology procedures are minimally invasive but still carry potential risks. The risks vary considerably depending on the specific procedure and tumour being treated.
Potential risks may include:
- Bleeding or bruising at the treatment site
- Reaction to contrast dye
- Pain or discomfort following treatment
- Tumour recurrence or progression
- Need for additional treatment
Ablation procedures may also cause temporary inflammation or changes in the surrounding tissue.
Your specialist will explain the potential benefits, risks and alternatives before recommending a procedure.
Recovery After Interventional Oncology Treatment
What Can You Expect After Treatment?
Recovery depends on the type of interventional procedure performed.
Following treatment, you may be monitored for a period of time to assess your condition and identify any immediate complications.
Your recovery may depend on:
- The type of procedure performed
- The tumour being treated
- The size and location of the tumour
- Whether additional cancer treatment is planned
- Your general health
Your specialist will provide personalised instructions regarding medication, physical activity, wound or access-site care and follow-up.
Follow-up imaging may also be recommended to assess the treatment response.
Your Interventional Oncology Treatment Journey
| Step | Stage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Specialist Assessment | Review your diagnosis, symptoms, medical history and existing cancer imaging. |
| 2 | Tumour & Vascular Imaging | Assess the tumour's size, location, blood supply and relationship with surrounding structures. |
| 3 | Individualised Treatment Planning | Determine whether an interventional oncology procedure is appropriate and which technique may be most suitable. |
| 4 | Image-Guided Treatment | Perform the selected procedure using specialised needles, catheters and appropriate imaging guidance. |
| 5 | Immediate Recovery & Monitoring | Monitor your condition following the procedure and assess the treatment or access site. |
| 6 | Follow-Up Imaging | Use appropriate imaging to evaluate the treated area and treatment response. |
| 7 | Ongoing Cancer Care | Coordinate further treatment or follow-up as appropriate within your broader cancer care pathway. |
Interventional Oncology vs Traditional Surgery
Different Approaches to Treating Selected Tumours
Interventional oncology and surgery are not necessarily competing approaches.
For selected patients, a minimally invasive interventional procedure may provide an alternative to open surgery. In other cases, interventional treatment may be used alongside surgery or another form of cancer treatment.
| Interventional Oncology | Surgery |
|---|---|
| Uses image-guided needles or catheters | Uses surgical access to reach and remove or treat tissue |
| Often performed through a small skin puncture | May require a larger surgical incision |
| Can provide localised treatment for selected tumours | May allow physical removal of the tumour |
| Recovery may be shorter for some procedures | Recovery depends on the type and extent of surgery |
| May complement surgery or other cancer treatments | May be the preferred treatment for selected tumours |
The appropriate treatment depends on the individual tumour and should be determined following specialist assessment.
Why Choose the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic?
Specialist Brain-to-Body Vascular Expertise Under One Roof
Interventional oncology requires detailed understanding of tumour anatomy, blood vessels and image-guided treatment techniques.
At the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, care is led by Dr. Manish Taneja, a dual-trained neurointerventional and peripheral vascular intervention specialist.
Interventional Expertise
Specialist experience in image-guided vascular procedures supports the use of minimally invasive techniques for selected tumour-related conditions.
Brain-to-Body Vascular Perspective
Dr. Manish Taneja's expertise spans neurointerventional and peripheral vascular procedures, providing a broad understanding of vascular anatomy throughout the body.
Personalised Treatment Planning
Treatment recommendations are based on the individual tumour, imaging findings, medical history and overall treatment goals.
Minimally Invasive Approach
Where appropriate, selected tumours can be treated or supported using image-guided procedures rather than open surgery.
Continuum of Care
From specialist assessment and treatment planning through intervention and follow-up, the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic provides continuity of specialist care under one roof.
Frequently Asked Questions About Interventional Oncology
What is interventional oncology?
Interventional oncology is a specialised field that uses minimally invasive, image-guided procedures to diagnose and treat selected tumours and cancer-related conditions.
What treatments are included in interventional oncology?
Depending on the patient's condition, interventional oncology may include tumour ablation, tumour embolisation, image-guided biopsy and vascular access procedures.
Is interventional oncology a type of cancer treatment?
It can be. Some interventional oncology procedures directly treat selected tumours, while others help diagnose cancer, support cancer treatment or manage related complications.
What is tumour ablation?
Tumour ablation is a minimally invasive treatment that uses controlled energy or extreme temperatures to destroy selected tumour tissue.
What types of tumour ablation are available?
Depending on the tumour and clinical circumstances, ablation may include radiofrequency ablation, microwave ablation, cryoablation or irreversible electroporation.
What is the difference between tumour embolisation and tumour ablation?
Tumour embolisation reduces or blocks blood flow to a tumour, while tumour ablation directly destroys targeted tumour tissue using controlled energy.
Can interventional oncology treat cancer without surgery?
Selected tumours can be treated using minimally invasive interventional procedures without open surgery. However, not every tumour is suitable for interventional treatment, and surgery may remain the preferred approach in some cases.
Is interventional oncology suitable for every cancer patient?
No. Suitability depends on factors such as the type, size, location and stage of the tumour, as well as the patient's overall health and previous treatments.
Can interventional oncology support chemotherapy?
Yes. Procedures such as Port-A-Cath and PICC line placement can provide reliable vascular access for selected patients receiving chemotherapy and other intravenous treatments.
Is interventional oncology part of cancer treatment?
Yes. Interventional oncology may be used as part of a broader cancer treatment strategy and can sometimes be combined with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or other treatments.
Can interventional oncology help with cancer pain?
Yes. Selected injections and nerve blocks can be used to help manage cancer-related pain.
Does interventional oncology require hospitalisation?
Hospital stay depends on the procedure, tumour being treated and the patient's condition. Some procedures may be performed with a shorter period of observation, while others may require an overnight or longer stay.
What happens after an interventional oncology procedure?
Patients are monitored after treatment and may undergo follow-up imaging to assess the treated area and treatment response. Further cancer treatment may be recommended depending on the individual situation.
Does interventional oncology replace surgery or chemotherapy?
Not necessarily. Interventional oncology is often used alongside other cancer treatments and may provide a complementary or alternative approach for selected patients.
Specialist Assessment for Interventional Oncology in Singapore
Interventional oncology provides minimally invasive, image-guided options for selected tumours and cancer-related conditions. At the Supreme Vascular and Interventional Clinic, Dr. Manish Taneja provides specialist assessment, imaging review and personalised treatment planning for patients who may benefit from interventional oncology.
With expertise spanning the brain and body, the clinic provides minimally invasive vascular and interventional treatment with continuity of specialist care under one roof. If you have been diagnosed with a tumour, referred for minimally invasive cancer treatment or are seeking a specialist second opinion, the team can help you understand whether an interventional approach may be appropriate for your condition.
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