intraoperative chemotherapy
Administration of chemotherapeutic agents directly into the surgical field during the operative procedure.
Full Definition
Intraoperative chemotherapy involves the direct application or infusion of chemotherapeutic drugs into the surgical site, body cavity, or organ system during the surgical procedure itself. This technique allows for high local drug concentrations while minimizing systemic toxicity. Common applications include heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for peritoneal carcinomatosis, intravesical chemotherapy during bladder surgery, and perfusion chemotherapy for extremity sarcomas. The approach requires specialized equipment, trained personnel, and careful coordination between surgical and medical oncology teams. Intraoperative chemotherapy may be used to treat microscopic residual disease or prevent tumor cell implantation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the delivery method (perfusion, instillation, topical application) and anatomical location for precision in documentation.
In Context
- "Following cytoreductive surgery, intraoperative chemotherapy was administered via heated perfusion." — Operative report
- "The protocol included intraoperative chemotherapy to target any remaining microscopic disease." — Treatment protocol document