In the high-tech world of modern medicine, few specialties embody innovation like Interventional Radiology (IR). Once a little-known branch of diagnostic imaging, IR is now one of the most dynamic and rapidly advancing areas of patient care—addressing a wide range of conditions with precision, efficiency, and compassion.
And here in Bend, patients have access to an experienced IR team delivering advanced treatments in a modern outpatient setting.
The Vascular Interventional Specialists of CORA
The Vascular Interventional Specialists (VIS) of Central Oregon Radiology Associates (CORA) are a team of highly trained IR physicians who share a common goal: to expand access to advanced, image-guided treatments for patients across Central Oregon and neighboring communities.
What is Interventional Radiology?
IR is a medical specialty that treats disease with targeted, image-guided techniques. Using tools like fluoroscopy, CT, or ultrasound, IR physicians can navigate through the body’s vessels or soft tissues to address a condition exactly where it occurs—often with less discomfort and shorter recovery times for patients.
The Origin Story:
Seeing the Need, Building the Solution
When COVID-19 disrupted hospital-based procedures, the VIS team saw a troubling pattern: patients—especially those facing serious conditions like cancer—were experiencing delays in care. For some, it meant postponing treatments that could directly affect outcomes. For others, it meant traveling long distances to find available services.
They knew there had to be a better way. “We were especially concerned about our oncology patients,” states Dr. Dana Mann, an IR specialist for over 29 years. “Even a month's delay in treatment could impact outcomes.”
Rather than wait for the system to catch up, the team committed to creating a dedicated space for advanced, image-guided procedures—designed for rapid, safe, and convenient outpatient access. The goal was simple: remove barriers so patients could receive the care they needed, when they needed it.
In 2021, VIS opened its first clinic on Bend’s westside. The response from both patients and referring providers was immediate—confirming the need for a more streamlined, accessible option. By May 2025, the team moved into a custom-designed outpatient facility on CORA’s Eastside campus—complete with a world-class imaging suite, one of only a few of its kind in the region.
“We didn’t just build a space—we built a model of care,” explains Dr. Garrett Schroeder. “Now we can tailor where we treat patients—whether in the hospital for complex cases, or at our outpatient lab for safe, efficient procedures with faster recovery.”
More Than a Procedure Suite — A Complete Clinic
From the first consultation through imaging, treatment, and follow-up, VIS provides full continuity of care. This approach benefits patients managing conditions such as cancer, uterine fibroids, prostate enlargement, osteoarthritis of the knee, varicose veins, peripheral artery disease and chronic pain.
Why IR is Changing the Game
• Minimally Invasive: Smaller entry points mean less discomfort
• Faster Recovery: Most patients return to daily activities in days
• Precise Targeting: Imaging guidance delivers treatment exactly where it’s needed
• Fewer Complications: Lower risk of infection or extended downtime
• Outpatient Friendly: Many IR treatments are completed without an overnight stay
A Grateful Community, A Vision for the Future
From cancer cases to aging joints, from stroke rescue to fertility-preserving fibroid treatments, IR offers Central Oregonians safe, effective, and elegant options—close to home.
CORA is thankful for the trust their patients and colleagues place in them each day, and for the opportunity to help bring advanced care closer to home. Adds Dr. Casey Curran, “I’m grateful to work in a specialty where collaboration is second nature. We’re constantly learning from our colleagues across disciplines, and that benefits every patient.”
If you’d like to learn more about Interventional Radiology or the services available through VIS of CORA, please visit VISofCORA.com.
Collaboration at Its Core
From its beginnings in 1964 with the first angioplasty, IR has grown alongside—and in partnership with—other medical specialties. Today, it works in close coordination with:
• Neurology: Stroke treatment via clot retrieval
• Oncology: Targeted chemo, radiation, and port placement
• Gastroenterology: Feeding tubes, biliary drainage, hemorrhoid treatment
• Urology: Prostatic artery embolization for BPH and renal tumor ablation
• Gynecology: Uterine fibroid and pelvic congestion relief
• Pain Management: Kyphoplasty and nerve ablation
• Emergency Medicine: Life-saving trauma embolizations
• PTSD Treatment: Stellate ganglion blocks
• Orthopedics: Geniculate artery embolization for knee osteoarthritis
• Cardiology: Heart and vascular procedures
About CORA
For over 75 years, Central Oregon Radiology Associates has provided advanced imaging services across the region, partnering with hospitals and clinics to deliver accurate, timely care close to home.
"Our goal is to ensure patients feel confident in their CORA VIS team and well informed about their treatment plan."
— Ande DeMarco, PA-C
"Technology is important, but what really matters is the human connection--listening, explaining, and making sure patients feel supported every step of the way."
— Dr. Benjamin English