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Radiation therapy in the treatment of carcinoma of the ovary
Author(s) -
Perez Carlos A.,
Bradfield John S.
Publication year - 1972
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/1097-0142(197204)29:4<1027::aid-cncr2820290451>3.0.co;2-4
Subject(s) - medicine , radiation therapy , ovary , pelvis , carcinoma , palliative care , chemotherapy , cancer , general surgery , surgery , nursing
It is well accepted that radical surgery, whenever possible, is the treatment of choice in carcinoma of the ovary. The practice of removing as much of the tumor as possible, although widely proclaimed, may conflict with newer concepts in cancer biology concerned with host response and dissemination of tumor cells at the time of a surgical procedure. The role of radiation therapy in the management of carcinoma of the ovary is nebulous, and although generally accepted, the value of postoperative irradiation has not been definitely proven. Preoperative irradiation may be of significant benefit in advanced tumors localized to the pelvis. There seems to be little question about the palliative value of radiation therapy in reducing ascites, decreasing the size of pelvic or abdominal masses, and relieving pain. Chemotherapy has a definite palliative effect, particularly when combined with radiation therapy. Combinations of drugs to decrease toxicity and enhance tumor effect must be evaluated in the future, with a curative aim. Paramount to the accomplishment of any optimal programs of management is the creation of teams which should include gynecologists, surgeons, pathologists, radiation therapists, and chemotherapists, who will work closely in the integrated care of patients with carcinoma of the ovary.