What should you know about intraoperative radiotherapy?

During an operation, the team can move nearby healthy tissue away from the area being treated. A radiation applicator is then positioned over the target, and the radiation is delivered in a controlled session before the operation continues. This approach may help the team focus treatment on a specific site.

Whether it is suitable depends on the cancer location, the planned operation, previous treatment, and the tissues close to the target. It has been used in selected cases involving the breast, bowel, pelvis, head and neck, brain, and skin. It is planned jointly by surgeons, radiation specialists, anaesthetists, and other members of the cancer team.

Ask whether the radiation is intended as the main local treatment or as an additional part of surgery. Confirm how the treatment may affect the operation, wound care, hospital stay, and follow-up. Your team should explain the expected benefits, possible effects on nearby tissues, and alternatives.

Follow instructions about fasting, medicines, wound care, movement, and appointments. Report new swelling, increasing pain, wound leakage, fever, or changes in function so the team can assess them in context.

After surgery, contact the hospital team urgently for heavy bleeding, trouble breathing, severe or rapidly worsening pain, confusion, or a high temperature. The exact warning signs depend on the operation and treatment area, so keep the discharge instructions accessible.

Why is intraoperative radiotherapy being considered? Which area will be treated? Could nearby tissue be affected? How will it change the operation or recovery? What other radiotherapy options are available? Which symptoms should prompt an urgent call after discharge?