Alternative Breast Cancer Treatment
Alternative breast cancer treatments include breast-conserving surgery (lumpectomy) and intra-operative radiotherapy. The aim with each method if to remove the cancer while preserving as much of the non-cancerous breast tissue as possible. At Ariane Medical Systems Ltd, we aim to provide the best possible solution for patients with breast cancer, putting their choice and wellbeing at the forefront of our research initiatives.
Intra-operative radiotherapy is a method of administering radiotherapy treatment internally to a surgically exposed site. In the case of breast cancer, low-energy x-rays are given to the exposed cavity after the removal of a tumour in breast-conserving surgery. Therefore, the x-rays are delivered from a machine in the operating theatre during surgery whilst the patient remains under general anaesthesia.
Usually, a single dose of radiation is given in a single treatment, however, intra-operative radiotherapy may also be followed by a course of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT).
Links for Patients
Below you will find some useful links to websites that may help you in better understanding breast cancer treatment options.
If you believe intra-operative radiotherapy may benefit you, a family member or friend, we suggest you discuss the potential with the patient’s family physician, oncologist or surgeon.