intraoperative radiation therapy


intraoperative radiation therapy

Radiation oncology RT directly in a tumor during surgery. See Radiation oncology.

in·tra·op·er·a·tive ra·di·a·tion ther·a·py

(IORT) (in'trā-op'ĕr-ă-tiv rā'dē-ā'shŭn thār'ă-pē) Radiation treatment delivered directly to the tumor or tumor bed after the area has been surgically exposed; allows normal healthy tissue to be displaced from the treatment field.

intraoperative radiation therapy

Abbreviation: IORT
The administration of a large dose of radiation to a malignant tumor during surgery. After the tumor is debulked, the surrounding tissues are displaced, temporarily sutured, or protected by the applicator shield. The applicator then delivers a large dose of radiation directly to the affected tissues. IORT is used to manage otherwise unresectable tumors. See also: radiation therapy