Intraoperative Radiation Therapy

Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT)

St. Joseph Hospital has pioneered a new technology that improves breast cancer outcomes, decreases the amount of post-operative radiation required, preserves healthy breast tissue and increases patient comfort.The hospital remains at the forefront of medical innovation with the introduction of Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT), one of the most advanced forms of radiation therapy available in the United States.

IORT delivers highly targeted beams of radiation directly to a tumor site during surgery. In addition to improving patient outcomes, this direct application improves patient comfort by preserving healthy tissue surrounding the tumor and reducing the amount of radiation patients may need after surgery. For patients and their families, this means less stress and more time for healing.Intraoperative Radiation Therapy (IORT) delivers highly targeted beams of radiation during surgery. Studies show that radiating the tumor site in the breast immediately following tumor resection reduces the risk of the cancer returning.

As Orange County’s first hospital to offer this innovative treatment during breast surgery, Stacey Fischer, Breast Program Nurse Navigator, is also available to assist you and your patients should you have any questions concerning IORT or the Breast Program. She can be reached at (714) 734-6233.