Since the discovery of X-rays in 1895, radiology – the use of medical imaging for diagnosis and treatment – has been continuously evolving to include ever more sophisticated technology and procedures.
Initially radiology simply aided diagnosis, providing a look inside the body to help find a possible cause for symptoms. But in 1953 Dr. Sven-Ivar Seldinger (a Swedish radiologist) developed a technique to use medical imaging for treatment. Using fluoroscopy, a type of medical imaging that displays a continuous X-ray image on a monitor, Dr. Seldinger was able to place a small tube within a blood vessel without having to make a surgical incision.
For the first time a radiologist was able to use medical imaging to treat a patient. This process, which was less invasive and could ensure treatment was targeted to the specific area of concern, eventually led to the creation of a sub-specialty within the field of radiology called interventional radiology (IR). Interventional radiologists are able to use medical imaging to perform minimally invasive procedures that treat a variety of conditions.
Interventional radiology procedures can utilize a wide variety of medical imaging, such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT), not to mention X-ray fluoroscopy.
Interventional radiology involves the use of small catheter tubes and wires, or small needles, to precisely target areas of concern. This is sometimes called a pinhole procedure and can be an alternative to open and laparoscopic surgery.
For example, IR can be used to treat an enlarged prostate through prostate artery embolization (PAE). This procedure shrinks an enlarged prostate by using X-ray guidance to move a small plastic tube into the small arteries which feed the prostate and inject tiny plastic particles to block them, starving the prostate of its blood supply and shrinking it. Compare PAE to a common surgical option.
Uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) is a similar procedure for women, which treats fibroid tumors of the uterus – muscular tumors of varying sizes that grow in the wall of the uterus. In this instance, the small arteries which are feeding the fibroids are blocked to starve the fibroid of its blood supply, shrinking it.
Interventional radiology also includes pain management procedures, treatment of pain through targeted, image-guided injections of medications, and biopsies, inserting a very small needle into an area of concern to remove cells for microscopic examination.
A radiologist is a physician, who after obtaining a medical degree undergoes further training in radiology. An interventional radiologist has completed additional specialized training in performing minimally invasive procedures using imaging. This means they are trained to not only interpret images created by the various types of medical imaging, but also in using medical imaging to navigate small instruments through blood vessels and organs to treat a variety of conditions.
Interventional radiology procedures can reduce the risk of complications, provide shorter hospital stays, and enable quicker convalescence and return to work, compared to open surgery. The procedures are usually safer than the surgical alternatives.
Specifically for UFE and PAE embolization procedures, the area of concern is slowly deprived of its blood supply so it may take up to six months for you to see the full benefit, although you should start to feel better after a week. There is also a chance that the interventional radiologist will not be able to position the catheter adequately to block blood flow or the injection particles do not go into the correct area. Other general risks include infection, allergic reaction, bleeding, pain, etc.
For pain management procedures, the effects can be immediate, or may take up to a week to take full effect. Results may vary from weeks to months depending on the joint or body part involved, severity of the disease, and the cause of your pain. Some people may get complete relief that is permanent, while others may need further treatments or evaluation.
IR procedures are minimally invasive and can be utilized to treat conditions affecting a variety of areas and organs in the body. In Calgary, Mayfair’s interventional radiology team has been performing pain therapy procedures in our clinics since 2012 and some in-hospital IR procedures for over 30 years.
To determine whether IR procedures are appropriate for you, your doctor will often review your medical and family history, risk factors, how long symptoms have been present, and how they affect daily activities. If a pain management procedure has been chosen as the best next course of action, your doctor will need to fill out a requisition for pain management procedures. Our booking team will then contact you to arrange an appointment at one of our pain management clinics.
For IR procedures performed in hospital, they are covered under the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan. (We do accept out-of-province patients, but you will need to speak to your provincial plan administrator about reciprocal billing.) For PAE, UFE, or other IR in-hospital procedures, your doctor or specialist will need to fax a consultation request to Rockyview General Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department at 403-592-4852. Once the information has been received our interventional radiology team will review the request and contact you to arrange a consultation to determine if the procedure is appropriate based on your medical history. There may also be imaging required.
John Hopkins Medicine (2021) “Is Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) the Right Treatment for You?” www.hopkinsmedicine.org. Accessed April 1, 2022.
Mayo Clinic Staff (2022) “Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP).” www.mayoclinic.org. Accessed April 1, 2022.
Murphy, T. P. and Soares, G.M. (2005) “The Evolution of Interventional Radiology.” Seminars in Interventional Radiology. 22(1):6-9. Accessed April 1, 2022.
Radiological Society of North America (2017) “Professions in Interventional Radiology.” www.radiologyinfo.org. Accessed April 1, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistants (DIAs) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
