Intraoperative radiotherapy

TARGIT IORT


An innovative treatment for breast cancer that delivers radiotherapy directly into the breast​ after a tumour is removed

Enquiries & Appointments

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About

The pioneer of TARGIT IORT, Professor Jayant Vaidya, is a key member of the breast care team at The Princess Grace Hospital

Professor Vaidya's approach to treating breast cancer uses Intrabeam®  to deliver a precise dose of radiation into the breast, limiting the need for radiotherapy after surgery.

Need to know

Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) is done as part of an operation to remove a tumour in the breast (lumpectomy). Surgery is usually carried out under general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will make a cut in your breast to remove the tumour.

After the tumour has been removed, a dose of radiation is delivered directly to the area using a specialised radiotherapy machine called Intrabeam®. The precision of Intrabeam® helps to protect nearby healthy tissue while eliminating remaining cancer cells. Your surgeon will then close the area with stitches. The whole procedure usually takes around an hour and a half.

Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Because you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating or drinking before your surgery.

Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you. You won't be able to drive right after your surgery, so you should arrange for someone to help you get home.

You should be able to go home the same day as your surgery, although some people may need to be cared for in hospital overnight.

Before you leave the hospital, your consultant or breast care nurse will explain how to care for the area while it heals. If you have dissolvable stitches, they'll disappear on their own.

It's also a good idea to bring a soft cup bra with you to wear afterwards.

Your consultant will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including exercise.

Hospital stay and procedure

Paying for medical treatment

You don't need medical insurance to have fast access to our top consultants, extensive range of treatments, diagnostic tests and surgical procedures at our world-class facilities.

Intraoperative radiotherapy Consultants

Mr Neill Patani

Mr Neill Patani

General Surgery

Ms Jajini Varghese

Ms Jajini Varghese

Plastic Surgery

Professor Kefah Mokbel

Professor Kefah Mokbel

General Surgery

Miss Cheryl Lobo

Miss Cheryl Lobo

Breast Surgery

Our Intraoperative radiotherapy locations

The Princess Grace Hospital

The Princess Grace Hospital

42-52 Nottingham Place W1U 5NY London

Patient stories

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.