Debulking

Debulking[1] is the surgical removal[2] of part of a malignant tumour which cannot be completely excised, so as to enhance the effectiveness of radiation or chemotherapy. It is used only in specific malignancies, as generally partial removal of a tumor is not considered a worthwhile intervention. Ovarian carcinoma[3] and some types of brain tumor[4] are debulked prior to commencing radio- or chemotherapy. It may also be used in the case of slow growth tumors to shift tumor cells from phase of cell cycle to replicative pool.

It is usually a long and often complicated procedure taking several hours or more to perform, depending on internal involvement and location.

Debulking is also known as cytoreduction surgery;[5] "cytoreduction" refers to reducing the number of cancer cells.

References

  1. ↑ NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms - National Cancer Institute
  2. ↑ Surgical debulking of tumors. [Surg Gynecol Obstet. 1982] - PubMed - NCBI
  3. ↑ http://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovariancancer/detailedguide/ovarian-cancer-treating-surgery
  4. ↑ http://www.cuh.org.uk/resources/pdf/patient_information_leaflets/PIN1671_undergoing_neurosurgery_for_a_brain_tumour.pdf
  5. ↑ Cytoreductive Surgery and Heated Chemotherapy for Gastrointestinal Cancers


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