What is Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT)?
Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) is a technique where a concentrated dose of radiation is delivered to a cancerous area during surgery. The primary goal is to target the tumor more accurately and minimize exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This approach can be particularly advantageous in treating locally advanced cancers, where surgical margins are close, and the risk of recurrence is high.
How Does IORT Differ from Traditional Radiation Therapy?
Traditional radiation therapy typically involves multiple sessions over several weeks, where radiation is delivered externally. In contrast, IORT is conducted in a single session during surgery. This allows for a higher dose of radiation to be delivered directly to the tumor bed while sparing nearby healthy tissues. This precision is achieved because the tumor and surrounding organs are exposed and can be shielded or moved out of the radiation field during the procedure.
However, the suitability of IORT depends on the specific case and should be determined by a multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists.
Precision: The ability to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the tumor site.
Reduced Treatment Time: IORT typically requires a single session compared to multiple sessions of external radiation therapy.
Minimized Side Effects: By sparing surrounding healthy tissues, IORT can reduce the risk of radiation-induced side effects.
Immediate Treatment: Radiation is delivered immediately after tumor removal, which may help eliminate residual cancer cells.
Technical Challenges: IORT requires specialized equipment and expertise, which may not be available in all medical centers.
Limited Applicability: Not all patients or tumor types are suitable for IORT.
Potential Complications: There is a risk of complications such as wound healing issues or damage to nearby organs and tissues.
Surgical Removal: The tumor is surgically removed.
Radiation Delivery: A specialized applicator is placed in the surgical site, and a concentrated dose of radiation is delivered.
Completion: Once the radiation is administered, the surgical site is closed, and the patient is moved to recovery.
Conclusion
Intraoperative Radiation Therapy represents a promising option in the arsenal against cancer, offering targeted treatment with potential benefits over traditional radiation methods. As with any medical treatment, the decision to use IORT should be made on a case-by-case basis, considering the patient's unique circumstances and in consultation with a team of cancer specialists.
