Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT)
Introduction to Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT)
Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) is a cutting-edge treatment modality offered by Richard Martinez, MD, in his comprehensive cancer services. This innovative technique delivers targeted radiation therapy directly to the tumor site during surgery. By delivering radiation therapy at the time of surgery, IORT provides several advantages over traditional external radiation treatments.
The Benefits of Intraoperative Radiation Therapy
IORT offers numerous benefits for cancer patients, making it a highly effective treatment option. Some of the key advantages of IORT include:
- Improved Targeting: By delivering radiation therapy directly to the tumor site, IORT minimizes radiation exposure to healthy surrounding tissues, reducing the risk of complications.
- Increased Treatment Precision: With IORT, the radiation oncologist can precisely target the area where the tumor was removed, greatly enhancing treatment accuracy.
- Reduced Treatment Duration: Unlike conventional radiation therapy that requires multiple sessions over several weeks, IORT delivers the necessary dose in a single treatment session, saving time and providing convenience for patients.
- Lower Risk of Recurrence: By delivering a higher dose of radiation to the tumor bed immediately after surgery, IORT helps to destroy any remaining cancer cells, reducing the risk of local recurrence.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: IORT can spare healthy tissues from unnecessary radiation exposure, minimizing side effects and preserving patients' quality of life during and after treatment.
How Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Works
The process of IORT involves several key steps:
- Tumor Removal: During surgery, Richard Martinez, MD, removes the tumor or the tumor bed.
- Radiation Delivery: Once the tumor is removed, an applicator delivering the prescribed dose of radiation is placed directly at the target site.
- Treatment Administration: The radiation oncologist administers the radiation therapy, ensuring precise targeting of the area.
- Closure of Incision: After the IORT is completed, the surgical incision is closed, and the patient undergoes further recovery under the supervision of our dedicated medical team.
Conditions Treated with Intraoperative Radiation Therapy
IORT is utilized across various cancer types and stages. It is most commonly used for:
- Breast Cancer: IORT can be used during breast-conserving surgeries, delivering radiation directly to the tumor bed.
- Pancreatic Cancer: In selected cases, IORT can be used to provide an additional dose of radiation therapy after tumor removal.
- Colorectal Cancer: IORT can be employed when removing locally advanced tumors in the rectum.
- Soft Tissue Sarcomas: IORT can be utilized to deliver targeted radiation therapy after the removal of malignant soft tissue sarcomas.
Conclusion
Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) is revolutionizing cancer treatment by offering improved precision, reduced treatment duration, and enhanced tumor targeting. Richard Martinez, MD, provides comprehensive cancer services and is at the forefront of utilizing this advanced treatment option. If you or a loved one is considering cancer treatment, contact Richard Martinez, MD, to learn more about IORT and how it may benefit your specific condition.
