Evaluating the role of intra-operative radiation therapy in the modern management of breast cancer.
Over the last 10 years, intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT) has been used extensively in the clinical trial setting but has yet to make a significant clinical impact on current breast cancer management strategies. This review discusses the rationale behind IORT, the benefits and limitations of this technique over conventional whole breast radiation (WBRT), and the indications, contraindications, and appropriate patient selection criteria. In addition, the most up-to-date trial data and the role of IORT in future breast cancer management strategies are discussed.
Breast Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, 300 E. 66th St., New York, NY 10065, USA.
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Barry
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Sacchini
D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000532:radiotherapy* / Q000601:surgery; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D019468:Disease Management; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007430:Intraoperative Care / Q000639:trends*; D008408:Mastectomy; D018714:Radiotherapy, Adjuvant