cytoreductive surgery
Pronunciation: sy-toe-ree-DUK-tiv
Surgical procedure aimed at removing as much visible tumor as possible in advanced ovarian cancer.
Full Definition
Cytoreductive surgery, also known as debulking surgery, is a complex surgical procedure performed in patients with advanced ovarian cancer to remove all visible tumor deposits. The goal is to achieve optimal cytoreduction, traditionally defined as residual disease less than 1 cm in diameter, though complete gross resection (no visible residual disease) is now the preferred endpoint. The procedure may involve resection of multiple organs including bowel, diaphragm, spleen, and liver surfaces depending on the extent of disease. Primary cytoreduction is performed at initial diagnosis, while interval cytoreduction follows neoadjuvant chemotherapy. The extent of cytoreduction is a major prognostic factor for survival.
Usage
Usage note: Specify 'primary' or 'interval' when applicable to clarify timing relative to chemotherapy.
In Context
- "Optimal cytoreductive surgery was achieved with no gross residual disease." — Operative report
- "Neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval cytoreductive surgery is an acceptable treatment approach." — Treatment protocol