Siriraj Hospital urges use of advanced radiology technology
Siriraj Hospital is advocating for the use of advanced technology in interventional radiology, a minimally invasive procedure that targets specific medical treatments. The hospital emphasised that investing in this technology could save more lives and has called on the government to consider its importance.
Doctor Yongyut Sirivatanauksorn, director of Siriraj Hospital, highlighted the establishment of the Siriraj Centre of Interventional Radiology (SiCIR) in 2017.
Recognised as one of 19 Siriraj Medical Centres of Excellence, SiCIR aims to enhance patient care through advanced technology. This technology has benefited over 5,000 cases annually, and the number is expected to increase due to Thailand’s ageing population.
However, Dr Yongyut noted the challenges faced by some hospitals, such as a shortage of interventional radiologists (IR) and a lack of adequate tools to meet growing demand.
“Siriraj provides this technology for all patients, regardless of their medical health insurance. Some patients unable to afford their healthcare costs receive treatment free of charge.
Unfortunately, the technology is restricted to certain hospitals. As a training centre, we wish to see its expansion to make radiology more accessible.”
The procedure involves a specifically designed tool and an image-guided technique to reach the target area. The small incision allows for quicker recovery. This treatment applies to patients suffering from conditions such as stroke, cancer, and uterine artery embolisation, among others.
Doctor Somrach Thamtorawut, vice chairperson of the Siriraj Centre of Interventional Radiology, stated that there are only 140 interventional radiologists nationwide across seven centres.
Annually, about 15 doctors are trained to become interventional radiologists, but this number does not meet the demand. Many hospitals struggle to access expensive equipment due to the government’s limited budget, reported Bangkok Post.
Dr Somrach expressed hope, stating, “At the very least, we aim to have an IR team at our hospital centre so that patients can enjoy better access to effective medical treatment.”
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