Local tumor control by intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT): a pilot experience

Patients with locally advanced disease, considered incurable by conventional therapeutic options, were treated, if possible with surgical resection, and intra-operative radiotherapy (IORT) with or without external beam radiotherapy, with the aim of improving local control of disease. Twelve patients were selected for IORT and eight patients were subsequently submitted to IORT in order to achieve local control. There were no IORT related complications, and local tumor control was achieved in all cases with a median follow-up of 22 months. IORT is a new and experimental treatment modality with a potential advantage over conventional radiotherapy. (author)