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Intermediate Technical IVT

intraoperative ultrasound

Also written as: IOUS — Intraoperative Ultrasound

Real-time ultrasound imaging performed during surgery to guide tumor localization, assess resectability, and ensure complete tumor removal.

Full Definition

Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) is a surgical imaging technique where ultrasound probes are used directly on organ surfaces during open surgery or laparoscopic procedures. This technology is particularly valuable in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery, where it helps surgeons identify tumor boundaries, assess vascular involvement, locate additional lesions not visible on preoperative imaging, and guide precise resection planning. IOUS can identify small lesions missed on preoperative studies and helps determine resectability in real-time, often changing surgical approach during the procedure.

Usage

Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as IOUS in surgical documentation.

In Context

  • "Intraoperative ultrasound revealed two additional small hepatic metastases not seen on preoperative CT scan." — operative note
  • "The surgeon used intraoperative ultrasound to confirm adequate clearance around the pancreatic tumor." — surgical technique description

Also known as

IOUS surgical ultrasound

Don't confuse with

preoperative ultrasound endoscopic ultrasound

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