HIPEC stands for Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy. It is a surgical procedure that combines heated chemotherapy with surgery to treat cancers that have spread to the lining of the abdomen. The procedure is performed in two stages:
- First, the surgeon removes visible tumors and cancerous tissue from the abdomen.
- Next, a heated chemotherapy solution is circulated throughout the abdominal cavity for up to two hours to kill any remaining cancer cells.
How does HIPEC help fight abdominal cancer?
HIPEC offers several advantages over traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy for abdominal cancer, including:
- Direct delivery of chemotherapy to the site of cancer: Since the chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdominal cavity, it is highly concentrated and can effectively kill cancer cells in the area.
- Higher chemotherapy doses: Since the chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdominal cavity, the doses can be much higher than those given in traditional chemotherapy, which can lead to better cancer control.
- Reduced side effects: Since the chemotherapy is heated, it can better penetrate the tissues and kill cancer cells without causing as many side effects as traditional chemotherapy.
- Increased survival rates: HIPEC has been shown to increase survival rates for certain types of abdominal cancer.
Who is a candidate for HIPEC surgery?
HIPEC surgery is typically recommended for patients with advanced stages of abdominal cancer that have spread to the lining of the abdomen. The procedure may be recommended for patients with the following types of cancer:
- Appendiceal cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Ovarian cancer
- Peritoneal mesothelioma
What are the risks and benefits of HIPEC surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, HIPEC surgery comes with risks and benefits. Some potential benefits of HIPEC surgery include:
- Increased survival rates
- Reduced risk of cancer recurrence
- Reduced risk of side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy Some potential risks of HIPEC surgery include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Damage to nearby organs
HIPEC surgery is a specialized surgical procedure that can be used to treat certain types of abdominal cancer. The procedure offers several advantages over traditional chemotherapy and radiation therapy, including direct delivery of chemotherapy to the site of cancer, higher chemotherapy doses, reduced side effects, and increased survival rates. However, HIPEC surgery also comes with risks, and it is important for patients to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider before deciding whether to undergo the procedure.
