Can IR led clinics improve departmental efficiency in testicular vein embolisation?
Hardman, Alex
Hardman, Alex
Glos Author
Date
2026-01-14
Journal Title
Type
Conference Abstract
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Abstract
Purpose: IR led clinics provide an opportunity for discussion and clinical review of patients pre-operatively. From early 2023 all patient's referred for testicular vein embolisation (TVE) at the trust were reviewed in IR led clinic pre-operatively. We aimed to assess whether clinics reduce on the day cancellations/non-attendance (DNA).
Material(s) and Method(s): Patients were searched using a combination of online clinic letters and radiology systems (CRIS/PACS). Using electronic records the number of on-day cancellations or those who did not attend (DNA) was also assessed. This was compared with all patients referred for TVE between 2015-2019.
Result(s): 106 referrals were reviewed from prior to introduction of clinics, a total of 15 of these were not performed, with 9 on day cancellations (8.5% total). 85 patients had been seen in clinic. 27 of these patients did not go on to be listed for embolisation (either due to the patient electing to try conservative measures or not being clinically indicated). There were only 2 on day cancellations (1.2% of referrals for the procedure). Technical success rate for those undergoing TVE from clinic was 96%.
Conclusion(s): IR led clinics may have a number of potential benefits. Firstly they may reduce the on day cancellation rate, thereby allowing optimal use of IR theatre time. Secondly given the number of patients who elected to try conservative management, it may be that patient's who are counselled/consented on the day feel more pressured into undergoing the procedure than if the discussion takes place in a clinic setting.
Citation
Hardman A. & Hickson G. (2026). Can IR led clinics improve departmental efficiency in testicular vein embolisation?. CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology, 49(1 Supplement), S57. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00270-025-04286-2