Raymond H. Thornton
I am an interventional radiologist, a physician who specializes in image-guided therapies. Using x-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound, we are able to perform procedures inside the body through very small holes in the skin -- thanks to the miracles of modern medical imaging technology.For example, certain tumors can be treated by steering a catheter through the arteries until it is very close to the tumor and then injecting particles that stop blood flow through the catheter. We also do many procedures through veins, such as the placement of venous access devices, including chest ports, and the placement of filters in the large vein in the abdomen (the inferior vena cava) to protect against the potentially dangerous migration of blood clots. When organs such as kidneys or livers become obstructed, we have techniques to relieve the blockages using specially placed catheters and stents. Likewise, abnormal fluid collections in almost any location can be removed with our tools and expertise. When imaging studies identify suspicious abnormalities inside the body, patients are often referred to us for biopsy. Using radiologic imaging methods, we guide needles into abnormal areas to get tissue for microscopic evaluation. My academic interests in interventional radiology are broad and patient centered, including such topics as tumor embolization, therapies for malignant pleural effusions and ascites, and advances in image-guided therapy.
Phone
212-639-2463
Education
MD, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine
Residencies
University of California, San Francisco, Medical Center
Fellowships
University of California, San Francisco, Medical Center
Board Certifications
Diagnostic Radiology
Clinical Expertise
Interventional Radiology
Department & Service
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