IOeRT: A New Era in Cancer Care
At Aster Whitefield Hospital, we bring breakthrough technology closer to you with Intra-Operative Electron Radiation Therapy (IOeRT). This advanced treatment is designed to target cancer more effectively, reducing the need for extensive radiation therapy sessions. Aster Whitefield Hospital is the first in India and first in Asia-Pacific Region to offer Intra-Operative Electron Radiation Therapy for cancer treatment.
What is IOeRT?
IOeRT is a special type of radiation therapy performed during surgery. After the tumor is removed, a precise dose of radiation is directly delivered to the area where the tumor was located. IOeRT targets microscopic disease if present.
This approach helps in eliminating any remaining cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
How Does IOeRT Work?
Surgical Exposure: During surgery, tumor which is seen in naked eye is removed and the tumor bed is fully exposed. This allows for precise targeting of the radiation to the specific site where cancer cells might remain.
Single High-Dose Radiation: Unlike traditional radiation therapy, which is given over several sessions, IOeRT delivers a single, high dose of radiation directly to the tumor bed. This high-dose treatment is highly effective in destroying residual cancer cells.
Electron Beam Technology: IOeRT uses an electron beam, which is ideal for treating areas close to the skin and tissues that are surgically accessible. The electron beam penetrates only to a specific depth, protecting deeper tissues and organs from radiation exposure.
Protection of Healthy Tissues: Surrounding healthy tissues are carefully shielded or moved out of the radiation path, reducing the risk of side effects and damage to normal tissues.
Advantages of IOeRT:
Immediate Action: By delivering radiation immediately after tumor removal, IOeRT prevents the rapid regrowth of any microscopic cancer cells.
Enhanced Precision: The direct visualization of the target area during surgery allows for highly accurate radiation delivery, ensuring the radiation dose is concentrated exactly where it’s needed.
Reduced Treatment Time: Since IOeRT often requires only one session, patients may avoid the lengthy process associated with traditional radiation therapy.
Minimized Side Effects: The ability to protect healthy tissues means fewer side effects, such as skin damage or fatigue, which are common with other forms of radiation therapy.
Why Choose IOeRT?
Immediate Treatment: Radiation is given immediately after the tumor is removed, preventing cancer cells from growing back.
Better Solution for Breast Cancer cases: IOeRT is a perfect component when surgeons perform Oncoplastic Surgery. With IOeRT you will be sure about where the dose has been applied before reconstruction. IOeRT works very well in Nipple Sparing Mastectomy cases as well, in this case the patient will be able to conserve the Nipple Complex after mastectomy.
High Precision: Directly targets the affected area, sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
Reduced Side Effects: Lower risk of common radiation side effects, ensuring better recovery and fewer cosmetic impacts.
Single Session: In many cases, IOeRT can reduce or eliminate the need for further radiation therapy, saving you time and reducing exposure.
Who Can Benefit from IOeRT?
IOeRT is particularly beneficial for patients with various types of cancer, including breast, pancreatic, stomach, soft tissue sarcomas (STS), head and neck cancers, colorectal, and gynecological cancers. It’s especially useful when traditional radiation isn’t an option or when faster treatment is needed.
Our Commitment to Your Care
At Aster Whitefield, your safety and well-being are our top priorities. Our advanced equipment and skilled specialists ensure that you receive the best possible care with the latest technology.
