같은 의미로 사용되는 경우도 있다.

Cytoreduction literally means reduction in the number of cells. Cytoreduction can be complete (no visible disease left), optimal (less than 1 centimeter nodules left) or suboptimal (more than 1 centimeter nodules left).

Debulking is the surgical removal 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 and some types of brain tumor 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.