The Department of Radiology is an indispensable partner for patients. From diagnosis and treatment to ongoing surveillance, it works hand-in-hand with various specialties to help children thrive again. Using solid tumor management as an example, here is how radiology contributes to every stage of the patient journey.

1. Suspected solid tumor case referred to HKCH

2. Diagnosis

1. Radiology performs CT or MRI scan to confirm tumor type and stage.
2. Discussion among multidisciplinary teams on optimal care plan.
3. Radiology may perform biopsy and send tumor tissues to Pathology for testing. To avoid repeated sedation, a central venous catheter can be placed under ultrasound and X-ray guidance during the same session to deliver chemotherapy later.

3. Treatment

• Pre-operative planning for brain tumor: perform MRI scan to map crucial neurological structures for critical bodily functions, guiding neurosurgeons to avoid them during tumor resection.
• Interventional radiology as needed, e.g.:
  • Chemoembolization to inject chemotherapy into the tumor and block its blood supply
  • Cryoablation to destroy cancer cells

4. Post-treatment

• CT or MRI scans for assessing treatment response and ongoing surveillance

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