cytoreductive surgery
Pronunciation: SY-toe-ree-DUK-tiv
Surgical procedure aimed at removing as much visible tumor as possible, typically in advanced or metastatic disease.
Full Definition
Cytoreductive surgery, also known as debulking surgery, involves the aggressive surgical removal of all visible tumor deposits with the goal of achieving optimal cytoreduction. This approach is most commonly employed in peritoneal carcinomatosis from ovarian, colorectal, or appendiceal primaries, and may be combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). The success of cytoreductive surgery is often measured by the completeness of cytoreduction score, with optimal debulking defined as residual tumor nodules less than 1cm in diameter. This complex procedure requires extensive surgical expertise and careful patient selection, as it carries significant perioperative morbidity but may offer survival benefits in appropriately selected patients.
Usage
Usage note: Often used interchangeably with debulking surgery, though cytoreductive implies more aggressive approach.
In Context
- "The patient underwent extensive cytoreductive surgery achieving CC-1 completeness of cytoreduction." — Operative report
- "Multidisciplinary review recommended cytoreductive surgery followed by HIPEC for the peritoneal carcinomatosis." — Treatment planning documentation