Intraoperative Radiation Therapy: What You Need To Know

Introduction

Applications

Comparisons

Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) Overview and Its Use During Surgery

Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) is a treatment method that involves the use of radiation during surgery with the aim of killing cancer cells that may be left behind.

During the operation, the tumor is removed, leaving a cavity. An IORT applicator is then placed in this space to deliver radiation directly to the tissue surrounding the cavity.

The procedure offers several benefits. It targets only the area where cancer may remain, sparing healthy tissue from exposure to radiation and reducing side effects compared to traditional therapy methods.

Patients considering IORT should have discussions with their medical team to understand potential risks and to determine its suitability based on their specific case.

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Targeting and Treating Unseen Cancer with IORT

Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) is a treatment that delivers concentrated radiation to a tumor during surgery, targeting the disease at its source while minimizing harm to healthy tissue. This method of treating hidden or hard-to-reach cancers provides immediate post-surgical treatment, reducing the number of follow-up visits required for radiotherapy. IORT also reduces overall recovery time and lowers potential side effects in comparison to other methods.

It is crucial to differentiate IORT from conventional forms of radiotherapy, which are administered over weeks following surgery. IORT occurs directly after the removal of the visible tumor in one single session within the operating room itself.

While IORT may be an effective option for some types of unseen cancer, its applicability varies depending on the individual health circumstances and type of cancer.

Standard vs. Intraoperative Radiation Therapy: Risks and Combinations

Standard Radiation Therapy (SRT) and Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) both aim to kill cancer cells, differing in their delivery method and timing.

  • SRT involves multiple sessions spread over weeks, a process known as fractionation. This approach allows healthy tissues to recover between doses, potentially reducing side effects. However, it may also provide an opportunity for some cancer cells to replicate between treatments.

  • Conversely, IORT delivers a single high-dose of radiation directly into the tumor during surgery. This method seeks to eliminate residual cancer cells that might lead to recurrence after the surgical removal of the primary tumor.

Each method carries risks and benefits. SRT can lead to long-term side effects including fatigue or damage to nearby organs like the heart or lungs, depending on the treatment location. IORT, due to its targeted approach, often reduces these risks but may carry a potential for immediate surgical complications such as issues with wound healing.

In certain cases, such as with breast or colorectal cancers, doctors may opt to combine both therapies to maximize the effect against the cancer, contingent upon specific conditions that justify this approach.

The choice between these therapies or their combination depends on individual patient factors.

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