Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market Gains From New Solutions

Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market Size, Key Playsers with Shares and Trends

The global intraoperative radiation therapy market size is calculated at USD 69.6 million in 2025, grew to USD 74.09 million in 2026, and is projected to reach around USD 130.18 million by 2035. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.45% from 2026 to 2035.

The intraoperative radiation therapy market is witnessing steady growth driven by rising cancer incidence, technological advancements, and increasing adoption of targeted therapies. North America leads the global market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, strong presence of key manufacturers, and supportive reimbursement systems.

The region’s early adoption of innovative radiotherapy techniques and integration of AI-based imaging solutions further enhances treatment precision. Meanwhile, Asia-Pacific and Europe are emerging as promising regions with expanding oncology care facilities.

Key Takeaways

• Intraoperative radiation therapy industry poised to reach USD 69.6 million by 2025.
• Forecasted to grow to USD 130.18 million by 2035.
• Expected to maintain a CAGR of 6.45% from 2026 to 2035.
• North America held a major revenue share in the market in 2024.
• Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth during the predicted timeframe.
• By product & service, the products segment registered its dominance in 2024.
• By product & service, the services segment is expected to grow at the highest CAGR in the market during the studied years.
• By technology, the electron IORT segment held the largest revenue share in the market in 2024.
• By technology, the intraoperative brachytherapy segment is expected to show the fastest growth over the forecast period.
• By application, the breast cancer segment held a dominant share in the market in 2024.
• By application, the gastrointestinal cancer segment is expected to witness the fastest growth in the market over the forecast period.

Quick Facts Table

What is Intraoperative Radiation Therapy?

The intraoperative radiation therapy market is experiencing significant growth due to increasing demand for targeted, time-efficient cancer treatments, and technological advancements in surgical oncology. IORT is a procedure that delivers a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the tumor during surgery, reducing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues. This method shortens post-operative radiation sessions, speeds up patient recovery, and improves local tumor control, making it an increasingly popular choice in modern cancer care around the world.

Market Outlook

• Industry Growth Overview: The intraoperative radiation therapy market is experiencing robust growth driven by increasing cancer prevalence, technological advancements, and rising adoption of targeted radiotherapy. Expanding healthcare infrastructure and growing awareness of efficient, patient-centered cancer treatments further support the industry’s global development.
• Global Expansion: There is significant potential for market growth worldwide as healthcare systems adopt advanced, localized cancer treatment solutions. Increasing investments in oncology infrastructure, technological innovation, and better clinical outcomes are promoting wider adoption. Emerging economies are more frequently integrating IORT to improve access to cancer care and treatment efficiency.
• Major Investors: Leading investors in the market include prominent healthcare technology companies, venture capital firms, and hospital networks specializing in advanced oncology solutions. Key players such as Carl Zeiss Meditec AG, IntraOp Medical Inc., and Elekta AB are driving innovation through strategic funding, research collaborations, and global expansion efforts.
• Startup Ecosystem: The startup ecosystem in the market is growing rapidly, with new companies focusing on creating compact, affordable, and AI-powered IORT systems. These startups prioritize innovation in imaging accuracy, portability, and integration with surgical workflows. Partnerships with hospitals and research institutions are accelerating technology validation, clinical adoption, and expansion into global markets.

From Automation to Intelligence: AI’s Expanding Role in Intraoperative Radiotherapy

Artificial Intelligence (AI) integration has significantly advanced intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) by improving precision, efficiency, and personalization in cancer treatment. AI-driven imaging and analytics enable surgeons and oncologists to identify tumor margins in real time, ensuring optimal radiation dosing while minimizing exposure to healthy tissues. Machine learning algorithms support dose planning, predict treatment outcomes, and automate quality control processes, thereby reducing human error during procedures. Furthermore, AI enhances workflow integration between surgical and radiology teams, improving coordination and accelerating treatment delivery. Continuous data learning from numerous patient cases strengthens clinical decision-making, resulting in superior treatment accuracy, safety, and long-term patient outcomes. Overall, AI reinforces IORT’s position as a cutting-edge, patient-centered approach in modern oncology.

Segment Outlook

Product & Service Insights

What Made Products the Dominant Segment in the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market?

The products segment dominated the market while holding the largest share in 2024, mainly due to the growing adoption of advanced IORT devices, equipment, and related accessories in surgical oncology. Technological innovations in mobile linear accelerators, applicators, and precision dose-delivery systems have enhanced treatment accuracy and efficiency, driving preference for product-based solutions. Additionally, hospitals and cancer care centers increasingly invest in standalone IORT equipment to ensure seamless integration into surgical workflows, reducing treatment times and improving patient outcomes. The segment’s dominance is further supported by the rising incidence of cancer and the need for targeted, intraoperative radiotherapy approaches.

The services segment is expected to expand at the fastest rate in the upcoming period due to the increasing demand for installation, maintenance, training, and consulting services associated with sophisticated IORT systems. Hospitals and cancer centers rely on expert service providers to ensure optimal performance, compliance with safety regulations, and proper staff training for complex equipment. Additionally, the rise in collaborative cancer care programs and partnerships with specialized service providers is driving recurring revenue opportunities. As healthcare providers prioritize seamless integration of IORT into surgical workflows, demand for professional services continues to expand alongside the adoption of advanced products.

Technology Insights

Why Did the Electron IORT Segment Dominate the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market?

The electron IORT segment led the market in 2024 due to its excellent tissue penetration control, accurate dose delivery, and minimal radiation exposure to nearby healthy tissues. Its proven clinical effectiveness, shorter treatment time, and compatibility with mobile linear accelerators make it a popular choice among hospitals and cancer treatment centers worldwide. Their compatibility with existing surgical workflows and proven safety profile have reinforced widespread adoption, making electron IORT the preferred choice in many clinical settings.

The intraoperative brachytherapy segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate in the upcoming period due to its ability to deliver highly localized radiation directly to the tumor bed while causing minimal tissue damage. Advances in miniaturized X-ray sources, flexible applicators, and real-time imaging enhance treatment accuracy, safety, and versatility, leading to rapid adoption across various cancer types and clinical settings.

Application Insights

Why Did the Breast Cancer Segment Lead the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market in 2024?

The breast cancer segment dominated the market, holding the largest share in 2024. This is mainly because of the high global prevalence of the disease and the proven clinical effectiveness of IORT in treating early-stage breast cancer. IORT allows for single-session, targeted radiation during surgery, reducing the need for postoperative treatments, minimizing tissue damage, and improving cosmetic and recovery outcomes, which has led to its widespread adoption in oncology practices.

The gastrointestinal cancer segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR in the intraoperative radiation therapy market. This is driven by increasing cases of colorectal and pancreatic cancers and the effectiveness of IORT in treating complex abdominal tumors. Its capability to deliver precise, high-dose radiation during surgery improves local control, reduces recurrence, and enhances post-surgical recovery.

The endometrial & cervical cancer segment is expected to grow at a notable rate during the forecast period due to the rising adoption of IORT in treating locally advanced and recurrent pelvic tumors. Its targeted radiation delivery reduces damage to surrounding organs, improves local tumor control, and enhances treatment outcomes for patients with limited radiotherapy options.

Regional Analysis

Which Factors Contribute to North America’s Dominance in the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market?

North America dominated the intraoperative radiation therapy market by capturing the largest share in 2024, thanks to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, early adoption of surgical-radiation hybrid treatments, strong presence of key players, and favorable reimbursement systems. The region benefits from substantial healthcare expenditure and continuous investments in research and development for precision cancer treatments. Government initiatives promoting early cancer detection and advanced therapeutic options further support market growth.

Clinical Innovation and Infrastructure Development to Drive the U.S. Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market

The U.S. is a major player in the North American intraoperative radiation therapy market due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high cancer rates, early adoption of innovative radiotherapy technologies, strong presence of key manufacturers, substantial research funding, and supportive regulations that promote precision-based cancer treatments. Growing prevalence of breast cancer in the U.S. further drives this leadership. By 2025, an estimated 316,950 new invasive breast cancer cases in women and 42,170 projected deaths are expected.

What Makes Asia-Pacific the Fastest-Growing Area?

Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest rate throughout the forecast period due to increasing cancer rates, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and rising investment in advanced oncology technologies. Growing awareness of targeted radiation treatments, supportive government initiatives, and collaborations with global medical device firms further boost IORT adoption in emerging economies such as China, India, and Japan. Additionally, growing awareness among physicians and patients about precision cancer therapies, combined with favorable government initiatives and public-private partnerships, is accelerating the adoption of IORT technologies across the region.

Expanding Cancer Care Infrastructure Fuels China’s Market Growth

China leads the Asia-Pacific intraoperative radiation therapy market due to its rapidly expanding oncology infrastructure, rising cancer prevalence, and strong government investment in advanced medical technologies. The presence of prominent domestic manufacturers, increasing adoption of precision radiotherapy, and growing awareness of single-session cancer treatments further reinforce China’s leadership in the regional market.

How Big is the Opportunity for the Growth of the Middle East and Africa in the Market?

The Middle East and Africa present significant growth opportunities for IORT as governments expand oncology infrastructure and private investments increase. Rising cancer rates, medical tourism hubs, and demand for single-session, resource-efficient treatments make IORT attractive. Public-private partnerships, capacity-building, training programs, and the adoption of portable, low-shielding systems accelerate clinical adoption and expand regional access to advanced intraoperative radiation care.

Healthcare Modernization and Oncology Investments to Boost the UAE’s Market

The growth of the intraoperative radiation therapy market in the UAE is driven by rising cancer rates, government efforts to enhance advanced oncology care, and increased investments in healthcare infrastructure. The UAE’s emphasis on medical innovation, adoption of AI-driven treatment systems, and collaborations with international cancer centers improve access, boost patient outcomes, and drive the expansion of the IORT market in the region.

How is the Opportunistic Rise of Europe in the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market?

Europe is witnessing an opportunistic rise in the market driven by increasing investments in advanced oncology infrastructure and the growing adoption of precision-based cancer treatments. Government initiatives supporting cancer care, coupled with favorable reimbursement policies in countries such as Germany, France, and the UK, are driving market expansion. Additionally, collaborations between hospitals and medical device manufacturers are accelerating the integration of IORT technologies. Rising awareness among oncologists and patients about the benefits of single-session radiotherapy further supports Europe’s growing market presence.

Germany Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market Analysis

Germany is a major contributor to the European intraoperative radiation therapy market due to its well-established oncology infrastructure and strong focus on advanced cancer treatment technologies. The country benefits from favorable reimbursement policies, high adoption of precision-based radiotherapy, and significant investment in healthcare innovation. Additionally, partnerships between leading hospitals and medical device manufacturers have accelerated the deployment of IORT systems across Germany.

What Factors Contribute to the South American Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market?

The market in South America is driven by rising cancer incidence, growing awareness of advanced cancer treatment options, and increasing investment in modern healthcare infrastructure. Countries in the region are expanding oncology centers and upgrading radiotherapy capabilities, which supports the adoption of IORT systems. Additionally, collaborations between global medical device manufacturers and local hospitals are facilitating technology transfer and training, further strengthening market growth.

Brazil Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market Analysis

Brazil is the major contributor to the market within South America due to its well-established healthcare infrastructure and the presence of leading cancer treatment centers. The country has a high prevalence of cancer, which drives demand for advanced radiotherapy solutions such as IORT. Additionally, government initiatives to improve oncology care and partnerships with global medical device manufacturers support the adoption of cutting-edge treatment technologies in Brazil.

Value Chain Analysis

Research and Development (R&D)

The R&D stage forms the core of the IORT value chain. It involves technological innovation in radiation delivery systems, miniaturized accelerators, and applicator design. Major medical device manufacturers, research institutes, and universities such as Varian Medical Systems, IntraOp Medical, and Zeiss Group focus on improving dose accuracy and real-time imaging integration. Partnerships between hospitals and academic institutions support prototype testing, AI-assisted treatment planning, and development of next-generation devices.

Clinical Trials and Approvals

After R&D, clinical validation confirms efficacy and safety. Clinical trials are usually conducted with oncology centers and regulatory authorities such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), and the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan. These trials assess radiation dose accuracy, recurrence rates, and side effects. After successful trials, regulatory submissions, quality audits, and certification processes (ISO 13485, CE Mark) ensure compliance and allow market entry.

Patient Support and Service

This stage emphasizes post-implementation efficiency and patient satisfaction. Healthcare providers, oncology hospitals, and equipment suppliers collaboratively manage training programs, installation, and maintenance services. Patient support includes education on treatment outcomes, post-surgical monitoring, and managing side effects. Organizations like the American Cancer Society (ACS), the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), and local oncology associations play crucial roles in raising awareness, providing guidance, and improving access to IORT technologies, ensuring optimal clinical and emotional support for patients.

Top Companies in the Intraoperative Radiation Therapy Market

Carl Zeiss Meditec AG

Corporate Information

• Headquarters: Jena, Thuringia, Germany.
• Year Founded: 2002 (as Carl Zeiss Meditec AG).

Business Overview

Carl Zeiss Meditec AG is a leading medicaltechnology company that develops, manufactures, and markets diagnostic and therapeutic systems, with a strong focus on ophthalmology and microsurgery. Within its microsurgerybusiness scope, the company also offers intraoperative radiotherapy solutions (IORT) via its INTRABEAM® platform, enabling single-session radiation during surgery for oncology applications.

Business Segments / Divisions

The company’s revenue and operations are organized primarily into two strategic business units (SBUs):

• Ophthalmology (OPT): Solutions for diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases (intraocular lenses, lasers, diagnostics).
• Microsurgery (MCS): Visualization and surgical technology for neurosurgery, ENT, spinal, dental, and oncology workflows, including IORT systems.

Geographic Presence

Carl Zeiss Meditec has a global footprint. It operates in more than 50 countries, with production and R&D sites worldwide (including India and China) and major employee bases in the U.S., Japan, Spain, and France. Its distribution and service network spans Europe, the Americas, and AsiaPacific, enabling access to key oncology markets for IORT.

Key Offerings

INTRABEAM® 600 / INTRABEAM® 700: Compact intraoperative X-ray systems designed for IORT. INTRABEAM 700 features robotic-assisted precision, digital workflow architecture, and connectivity for intraoperative oncology applications (brain, breast, spinal) in surgery.

Applicators and treatmentplanning software: The system uses SMART Spherical Applicators, RFID-enabled workflow controls, and the Radiance™ planning simulation software to support intraoperative dose planning and execution.

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths:
  • Strong brand reputation and proven clinicaluse history with INTRABEAM, giving a competitive edge in the IORT market.
  • Global distribution and service network enabling penetration into developed and emerging oncology markets.
  • Integration of digital workflow, robotic assistance, and planning software adds value in the IORT environment.
• Weaknesses:
  • The IORT segment, while specialized, represents a smaller part of the company’s portfolio compared to ophthalmology; relative dependency on broader surgical/oncology cycles.
  • High-end systems come with significant cost and capitalinvestment implications, which may limit uptake in lower-resourced markets.
• Opportunities:
  • Growing demand for intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) in breast, brain, and other solid tumors, especially with single-session approaches and rising oncology incidence.
  • Increasing shift toward ambulatory surgical centers, singlefraction treatment models, and IORT adoption in emerging markets that are expanding oncology infrastructure.
  • Further digitalization and workflow integration (robotics + connectivity + software) can create upsell opportunities and servicerecurring revenue streams.
• Threats:
  • Competition from other IORT device manufacturers (mobile electron LINACs, brachytherapy systems) that may offer alternative approaches.
  • Reimbursement, regulatory, and cost-effectiveness challenges across different countries that could slow the adoption of IORT equipment.
  • Macro-economic headwinds, healthcare budget constraints, and capital purchase delays in certain regions could affect sales cycles.

Recent News

In April 2025, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG obtained U.S. FDA approval for its INTRABEAM 700 platform, a next-generation IORT system for low-energy X-ray delivery during surgery.

iCAD, Inc.

Corporate Information

• Headquarters: Nashua, New Hampshire, U.S.
• Year Founded: 1984 (originally as Howtek, Inc., later renamed to iCAD, Inc. in 2002).

Business Overview

iCAD is a medicaltechnology company specializing in advanced cancer detection and treatment solutions. It operates primarily in two major business areas: detection (computer-aided detection/AI for imaging) and therapy (radiation therapy systems). In the IORT space, iCAD provides systems that enable intraoperative radiation delivery during surgery, most notably its Xoft® Axxent® Electronic Brachytherapy (eBx®) System, which delivers single-session radiation treatment directly in the operating room.

Business Segments / Divisions

• Detection Segment: Includes AIpowered image analysis, workflows, mammography CAD, density assessment, CT/MR imaging support, and related software/algorithms.
• Therapy Segment: Consists of the Xoft® eBx® System (electronic brachytherapy) and IORT solutions, enabling radiation treatment during surgery for breast, gynecological, skin, brain, and other tumors.

Geographic Presence

iCAD has a global presence: its detection and therapy solutions are used in over 50 countries. It has manufacturing and R&D facilities in New Hampshire, U.S., and operations in San Jose, California, U.S. It also maintains an office in Lyon, France, to support its European business.

Key Offerings

• Xoft® Axxent® eBx® System: A compact, isotope-free X-ray source designed for intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT). This system enables a complete course of radiation in a single session during surgery, reducing the need for multiple postoperative external beam treatments.
• The Xoft system is cleared for early-stage breast cancer, non-melanoma skin cancer, gynecological cancers, and is being expanded (via clinical trials) into brain, rectal, and head & neck tumors.
• The company additionally offers AI-powered detection suites (ProFound®) for cancer screening and diagnosis, which complements its therapy offerings by supporting early detection and workflow integration.

SWOT Analysis

• Strengths:
  • Unique IORT offering (Xoft system) that enables single-session intraoperative radiation therapy, which provides a competitive differentiator.
  • Strong global footprint in detection and therapy, with a history of FDA and CE clearances, allowing access to developed markets.
  • Presence in both detection and therapy segments gives iCAD strategic breadth across the cancercare continuum (screening to treatment).
• Weaknesses:
  • Relatively small company scale compared to major medicaldevice firms, which may limit resource availability for large-scale commercialization and global rollout in the IORT market.
  • The IORT technology (especially the therapy segment) may face longer adoption curves due to capital costs, infrastructure requirements, and hospital workflow integration.
• Opportunities:
  • Growth in demand for IORT technologies globally (breast, brain, head & neck, gynecological cancers) as surgical oncology shifts toward singlesession treatments and minimally disruptive workflows.
  • Expansion in emerging markets where IORT adoption is still nascent, offering first-mover advantages for companies with established technology.
  • Synergies between detection and therapy business lines: early diagnosis (via AI), increasing the pool of eligible patients who could benefit from intraoperative radiation solutions.
• Threats:
  • Competing technologies (mobile electron LINAC systems, traditional external beam radiotherapy, other intraoperative devices) may erode market share or slow adoption of iCAD’s IORT systems.
  • Reimbursement and regulatory hurdles in various geographies may delay adoption of intraoperative radiation therapies despite clinical advantages.
  • Capital expenditure constraints in hospitals (especially in less developed markets) may slow uptake of IORT systems requiring surgicalsuite integration.

Other Major Companies and Their Offerings

Recent Developments

• In September 2025, GE HealthCare announced a new version of its software solution called Intelligent Radiation Therapy (iRT) for managing radiation therapy workflows. The update aims to reduce the time from diagnosis to treatment for patients. AI supports the iRT solution through GE. Third-party applications and healthcare integrations, along with the latest features, provide better links to systems most frequently used by radiation oncology departments and use information to enhance the department's effectiveness.
• In September 2025, Accuray Incorporated announced that the Accuray Stellar Solution represents the next step in the company's tradition of leading in adaptive radiation. The new Accuray technology is a solution, not just a system, for the U.S. market. It features a wide array of tools that enable clinical teams to meet the evolving treatment needs of patients receiving radiation therapy.
• In October 2024, Aster DM Healthcare, one of the largest integrated healthcare companies in India, made history by becoming the first hospital in the country to use Intra-Operative Electron Radiation Therapy (IOeRT). This groundbreaking move sets a new standard for cancer treatment. In a pioneering step that establishes a new benchmark in cancer care, Aster DM Healthcare has become the first healthcare facility in India to implement IOeRT, marking a significant shift in cancer treatment.

Exclusive Analysis

The global intraoperative radiation therapy market is experiencing a paradigm shift driven by the convergence of precision oncology, rising cancer incidence, and the increasing emphasis on value-based care models. The demand for single-session, intraoperative radiation interventions is accelerating as hospitals and surgical centers seek to optimize patient throughput, reduce postoperative complications, and shorten overall treatment timelines. Advanced electron-based and low-energy X-ray systems are enabling greater procedural efficiency while simultaneously mitigating exposure risks to healthy tissue, positioning IORT as a strategic solution within modern oncologic treatment protocols.

Geographically, North America maintains a dominant market position due to its mature healthcare infrastructure, high adoption of technologically advanced radiation devices, and robust reimbursement frameworks. However, Asia-Pacific represents the fastest-growing region, driven by increasing surgical oncology volumes, growing public awareness of cancer management options, and government investments in healthcare infrastructure and radiotherapy expansion. Emerging markets in Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa present substantial white-space opportunities for device manufacturers, particularly through strategic partnerships with hospitals and expansion into ambulatory surgical centers where conventional radiotherapy capacity remains limited.

From an investment and commercialization perspective, the IORT market offers attractive growth potential across multiple vectors. Key opportunities lie in the development of compact, cost-efficient systems tailored for mid-sized hospitals, integrated imaging and radiation platforms, and service-oriented business models including software, consumables, and workflow analytics. As clinical evidence continues to validate the efficacy of IORT in breast, brain, and head & neck cancers, the market is poised for accelerated adoption, creating favorable conditions for both incumbent players and new entrants seeking to capitalize on a rapidly evolving, high-margin niche within the broader radiation oncology ecosystem.

Segments Covered in the Report

By Product & Service

• Products
• Systems/Accelerators
• Applicators & Afterloads
• Treatments Planning Systems
• Accessories
• Services

By Technology

• Electron IORT
• Intraoperative Brachytherapy

By Application

• Breast Cancer
• Brain Tumor
• Gastrointestinal Cancer
• Head & Neck Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Endometrial & Cervical Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Other Cancer

By Region

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • Rest of North America
• South America
  • Brazil
  • Argentina
  • Rest of South America
• Europe
  • Western Europe 
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • France
  • Netherlands
  • Spain
  • Portugal
  • Belgium
  • Ireland
  • UK
  • Iceland
  • Switzerland
  • Poland
  • Rest of Western Europe
• Eastern Europe 
  • Austria
  • Russia & Belarus
  • Türkiye
  • Albania
  • Rest of Eastern Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Taiwan
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia and New Zealand
  • ASEAN Countries (Singapore, Malaysia)
  • South Korea
• Rest of APAC
  • MEA
  • GCC Countries
  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  • Qatar
  • Kuwait
  • Oman
  • Bahrain
• South Africa
• Egypt
• Rest of MEA