About Us

Division of Interventional Neuroradiology at UCLA Health

Welcome by Dr. Gary R. Duckwiler, MD: Director, Division of Interventional Neuroradiology (DINR)

Welcome to the Division of Interventional Neuroradiology (DINR) at UCLA Medical Center. The mission of Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center is to provide excellent patient care in support of the education and scientific programs of the schools of the UCLA Center for the Health Sciences.

The Division of Interventional Neuroradiology at UCLA is known for invention of the coiling technique for brain aneurysms with the Guglielmi Detachable Coils (GDC). Since these were first used at UCLA, these and later iterations of coils have revolutionized the care of brain aneurysms. Where once open surgery was the mainstay of treatment, minimally invasive coiling is now dominant. However, not all aneurysms are amenable to coiling and surgery may be necessary. At UCLA, we have highly integrated Neurological multidisciplinary care with the Departments of Neurosurgery and Neurology. As such, we provide the full spectrum and most appropriate care for every patient we see.

The DINR has also been a leader in interventional Stroke care. Our division invented the first device approved for use in opening up brain vessels in acute stroke, the MERCI device. Along with our world renowned colleagues in Vascular Neurology and Neurosurgery, UCLA was the first institution in Los Angeles designated a Comprehensive Stroke Center by the Joint Commission. We are a leader in acute Stroke trials and care.

The DINR was also pivotal in the development of other devices, such as Onyx embolization material, which is used to block abnormal vessels in the brain. Our practice extends to all vascular care of the brain, head, face, neck, and spine. We are also members of the Multidisciplinary Vascular Birthmark Center along with our colleagues in Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, Head and Neck Surgery, and Ophthalmology.

Thank you for visiting our website and contact us with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Gary Duckwiler, MD