tumor bed boost
Additional focused radiation therapy delivered to the surgical site after whole breast radiation following breast-conserving surgery.
Full Definition
A tumor bed boost is an additional dose of radiation therapy targeted specifically to the surgical cavity and surrounding tissue where a breast tumor was removed during breast-conserving surgery. This technique delivers extra radiation to the area at highest risk for local recurrence while minimizing dose to surrounding normal breast tissue. The boost is typically administered after completion of whole breast irradiation and may use external beam radiation or brachytherapy techniques. The decision to deliver a tumor bed boost depends on patient age, tumor characteristics, margin status, and other risk factors for local recurrence. Proper identification and targeting of the tumor bed requires careful coordination between surgical and radiation oncology teams.
Usage
Usage note: Specify radiation dose and technique used; distinguish from whole breast or partial breast radiation approaches.
In Context
- "A tumor bed boost of 10 Gy was delivered using electron beam therapy following whole breast radiation." — Radiation oncology report
- "The tumor bed boost was omitted in this elderly patient with favorable tumor characteristics." — Treatment plan