Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an advanced targeted cancer procedure where highly concentrated, heated chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdomen during surgery. In this, unlike traditional chemotherapy, HIPEC delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly to cancer cells in the abdomen. It reduces the rest of the body’s exposure to the chemotherapy and its subsequent side effects. It also improves the overall survival rate of among the selected, advance stage cancer patients.
HIPEC can be given to a very selected group of patients who have abdominal cancers, which is contained within the abdominal cavity itself and has not spread elsewhere through blood or lymphatic system. Such types of cancers hat have originated in or spread to the abdominal cavity are:
HIPEC is usually performed immediately after a cytoreductive surgery. During this surgery, Dr. Naresh will to remove visible cancer within the abdomen. The procedure is generally performed under general anesthesia.
Once all the tumors are removed, the sterilized and high-dose chemotherapy solution (heated at a temperature between 41-43 degrees celsius) is circulated inside the abdomen for approximately 1½ hours to penetrate and destroy remaining cancer cells. Later, the solution is emptied from the abdomen and incision is closed.
Cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC lasts 8-14 hours, depending on the extent of cancer. Patients typically stay in the hospital for 10-12 days following surgery. The patient might feel fatigue for 2-3 months post-surgery. Therefore, patient is advised to get rest during this period with mild activities like getting up and moving around. This will help patient combat fatigue and prevent possible post-surgery complications. A dietitian will evaluate the patient’s nutritional status both before and after surgery to ensure their caloric needs are being met. Patients will have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Naresh approximately 1-2 weeks after hospital discharge.
