Use of the 90Sr applicator for intraoperative radiation therapy in a mouse tumor model

Intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) research is limited by the lack of small-animal models. We have implanted B16 melanoma into mouse kidneys, which we subsequently operated upon and irradiated with beta rays from a 90Sr ophthalmic applicator. The IORT has effectively prolonged survival and produced some cures. The strategy should be applicable to other murine tumors and to other internal implantation sites.