Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a complex cancer treatment that integrates surgery and heated chemotherapy. It includes the surgical approach to remove any visible tumours in the peritoneal cavity before starting the HIPEC treatment. After surgery is complete, the abdomen is filled with warm chemotherapy solution. This “heated chemo bath” is the most accurate and effective way of targeting the microscopic cancer cells that remain in the abdominal cavity, as it uses a high concentration of drug directly at the site of the cancer.
The heat makes the drugs work more effectively- the drugs absorb better in warmth, so therefore the treatment is more effective and the cancer cells are more sensitive to the treatment. With systemic chemotherapy, the chemotherapy has side effects because it is delivered to all organs in the body; however, HIPEC is delivered directly to the peritoneal cavity. The local delivery of the drug reduces the systemic toxicity and provides a better, more concentrated and targeted attack on the cancer cells.
The HIPEC Procedure: Step-by-Step
HIPEC surgery typically takes between 6 and 12 hours, depending on the extent of the cancer and the complexity of the surgery, and consists of the following major components:
1. Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS)
Surgeons begin by putting the patient under general anaesthesia and then making an incision in the abdomen that goes into the peritoneal cavity.
2. Preparation for Chemotherapy Circulation
After clearing visible tumours, the abdominal cavity is prepared for chemotherapy. Tubes are placed strategically inside to both deliver and remove the heated chemo solution.
3. Heated Chemotherapy Bath
The heated chemotherapy solution bathes the abdominal cavity for 60-90 minutes at 41-43°C (106-109° F). The heat is helpful because it enhances the chemotherapy’s ability to penetrate cells and kills microscopic tumour cells more effectively.
4. Removal of Chemotherapy Solution and Closure
The solution is drained from the abdomen, and the peritoneal cavity is rinsed to remove residual drug. The surgical incision is then closed, and the patient is moved to recovery.
Who is Eligible for HIPEC?
HIPEC is primarily used for cancers that have spread to the peritoneal surfaces but have not metastasised to distant organs. Eligible cancers include:
- Ovarian cancer
- Colorectal cancer
- Appendiceal tumours and pseudomyxoma peritonei
- Stomach cancer
- Peritoneal mesothelioma
Surgical Oncology Solutions conducts comprehensive evaluations, including imaging scans and fitness assessments, to determine candidacy.
Benefits of HIPEC Surgery
- Targeted Drug Delivery: Delivers high concentrations of chemotherapy directly to the areas involved, improving the kill rate of cancer.
- Increased Effectiveness: Heat enables more chemotherapy uptake via cells while at the same time weakening the effect of cancer cells.
- Decreased Side Effects: Limits exposure to systemic chemotherapy, thereby reducing nausea, hair loss, or bone marrow suppression( chemotherapy-associated effects).
- Potential for Increased Survival: Some studies show that HIPEC with a complete resection of cancer (CRS) can improve outcomes considerably.
- Relief from Symptoms: Provides access to pain relief in the abdomen due to tumour spread, and lessens any bloating symptoms.
- One Treatment Session: Surgery and chemotherapy treatment together, thus days, weeks, or months of chemotherapy can be avoided to obtain adequate treatment.
Recovery and Aftercare
After HIPEC, patients usually have a period of hospitalisation and observation, not least one week, and possibly up to 14 days. The early interventions to aid healing include pain control, maintenance of nutrition and hydration, and early mobility. Follow-up appointments serve as a means for the doctor to detect recurrence and to manage side effects.
Surgical Oncology Solutions provides the important supportive measures that we need during post-operative recovery through their comprehensive post-operative care plans, which are safe and effective.
Why Choose Surgical Oncology Solutions for HIPEC?
Surgical Oncology Solutions leads HIPEC treatment in India because of:
- Exceptional Surgical Team: Oncologic surgeons with vast experience and advanced skills in advanced cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced operating rooms with sophisticated options for heating and delivery of chemotherapy.
- Integrated care: Collaboration with medical and radiation oncology and palliative care that works.
- Patient-centred care: Personalised treatment plans that regard the patient’s condition, success, and quality of life.
- Research and development: A dedication to learning and change so that the most current techniques are employed.
FAQs About HIPEC Surgery
Is HIPEC Surgery Safe?
While complex, HIPEC is safe when performed by expert teams with comprehensive perioperative care, including infection control and close monitoring.
How Long is the Procedure?
The duration of the combined cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC is usually between 6 and 12 hours; it largely depends on the extent of tumour spread.
What Are the Risks?
The potential risks are infections, bleeding, problems with the intestines and side effects of chemotherapy. Most of them are prevented with the help of expert surgical care and proper patient selection.
Conclusion: HIPEC Offers Hope for Abdominal Cancer Patients
HIPEC surgery is the merger of ground-breaking scientific research and the skilful operation, which, basically, gives patients with late-stage peritoneal cancers the possibility of a new life. Our Surgical Oncology Solutions is proud to bring this revolutionary treatment to the market, characterised by great precision and zeal.
If it is your case, or that of any of your family members, and you have been diagnosed with abdominal cancer that has spread to the peritoneum, then the best decision would be to come and see our Surgical Oncology Solutions team. Our team will be with you every step of the way, helping you with a personalised evaluation and treatment plan to make the most of your survival period and quality of life.
If you are interested in learning more about the HIPEC process, Surgical Oncology Solutions is the place to be. Feel free to call us to fix an appointment for a consultation.
Next to a cancer-free future where treatment will be efficient, precise and patient-centred.
