TARGIT

TARGIT

TARGIT (Targeted Intraoperative Radiotherapy) is an innovative approach to delivering radiotherapy for breast cancer treatment. It involves administering a single dose of radiation directly to the tumor bed during surgery, immediately after the tumor is removed. This method contrasts with traditional external beam radiotherapy, which typically requires multiple sessions over several weeks.

Overview

TARGIT is designed to target the area most at risk of cancer recurrence, thereby minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This technique is particularly beneficial for patients with early-stage breast cancer, offering a more convenient and potentially less toxic alternative to conventional radiotherapy.

Procedure

The TARGIT procedure is performed during a lumpectomy, a surgery to remove the breast tumor. After the tumor is excised, a specialized device is placed in the tumor bed. This device delivers a precise dose of radiation directly to the site, targeting any residual cancer cells. The entire process typically takes about 20-30 minutes.

Benefits

• Convenience: TARGIT reduces the need for multiple hospital visits, as it is completed in a single session.
• Reduced Side Effects: By focusing radiation on the tumor bed, TARGIT minimizes exposure to healthy tissues, potentially reducing side effects such as skin irritation and fatigue.
• Immediate Treatment: Radiation is delivered immediately after tumor removal, which may improve its effectiveness in preventing recurrence.

Clinical Evidence

Several clinical trials have evaluated the efficacy and safety of TARGIT. The TARGIT-A trial, a large international study, demonstrated that TARGIT is non-inferior to conventional radiotherapy in terms of local recurrence rates and overall survival for selected patients with early-stage breast cancer.

Limitations

While TARGIT offers many advantages, it is not suitable for all breast cancer patients. It is primarily recommended for those with early-stage disease and specific tumor characteristics. Patients with larger tumors or more aggressive cancer types may still require traditional radiotherapy.

Future Directions

Research is ongoing to refine TARGIT techniques and expand its applicability. Studies are exploring its use in other cancer types and in combination with other therapies to enhance treatment outcomes.

Also see

• Breast Cancer Treatment
• Radiotherapy
• Lumpectomy
• Intraoperative Radiation Therapy