Breast Surgical Oncologist and Radiation Oncologist at Providence, Saint John’s Health Center Discuss Intraoperative Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer Candidates
News often travels quickly—especially when major media outlets take on complex medical topics without consulting the experts who work with these treatments every day. At Saint John’s Health Center, our radiation oncologists and surgical oncologists work together to provide clarity on one such innovation: Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) and its growing role in treating breast cancer. When recommending IORT to the right patient, it works exceptionally well. The key is thoughtful, individualized selection.
“First select the correct patient for it and then after have a thorough discussion so that they know the risk and benefits of different approaches of radiation.”
– April Vassantachart, MD.
When Is Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Recommended?
IORT is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Patients must meet specific criteria for it to be both safe and effective. When IORT is not suitable, External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT), and other alternative radiation options may be recommended.
At Saint John’s, each case is carefully reviewed by a multidisciplinary team—including radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists and other specialists—who work together to determine the best approach and the appropriate radiation dosage for each patient.
What Is Intraoperative Radiation Therapy?
IORT is a specialized technique that delivers a single, concentrated dose of radiation directly to the area where the tumor was removed—during surgery, immediately after the tumor has been excised. This targeted approach treats the tissue most at risk while protecting surrounding healthy structures.
Who May Benefit from IORT?
IORT is typically considered for:
- Early-stage, low-risk breast cancers (small tumors, clear surgical margins, and no lymph node involvement)
- Patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) who prefer a single-session radiation treatment rather than multiple sessions of EBRT
Most of the patients getting IORT can do just 5 treatments of EBRT. Ultimately, the decision depends on the patient’s unique diagnosis, preferences, and overall health.
Collaborative Expertise for Better Outcomes
Janie Grumley, MD and April Vassantachart, MD discuss how patients are selected for IORT
Janie Grumley, MD, & April Vassantachart, MD discuss pros and cons of Breast IORT.
IORT is available at only a few centers in Los Angeles County—and Saint John’s is proud to be one of them. Our multidisciplinary approach reflects our ongoing commitment to combining leading-edge technology with compassionate care, helping patients navigate breast cancer treatment with confidence and hope.
To learn more about Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) please visit our webpage IROT for Breast Cancer.