When it comes to cancer treatment, advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques continue to improve patient outcomes. One such breakthrough is HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy), a powerful and innovative treatment option for certain cancers. At Fortis Healthcare, we are proud to offer cutting-edge treatments like HIPEC to provide our patients with the best possible chances of recovery.

But what exactly is HIPEC surgery, and how does it work? In this guide, we will break down the procedure, its benefits, risks, and the conditions it treats, giving you a clearer understanding of this life-saving treatment option.

What is HIPEC Surgery?

HIPEC is an advanced cancer treatment that involves the administration of heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity. This procedure is designed for patients who have cancers that have spread to the peritoneal cavity (the area surrounding the organs in the abdomen). The goal of HIPEC is to target cancer cells more effectively, minimizing the damage to surrounding healthy tissue while maximizing the impact on tumor cells.

HIPEC is typically performed after the surgeon has removed visible tumors from the abdominal cavity. Once the surgeon has cleared the area, heated chemotherapy drugs are introduced directly into the peritoneal cavity, where they circulate to destroy any remaining cancer cells. This treatment is unique in its ability to deliver high concentrations of chemotherapy directly to the site of the tumor, significantly improving its effectiveness.

Why is HIPEC Surgery Used?

HIPEC is primarily used to treat peritoneal carcinomatosis, a condition where cancer cells have spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity. This condition can be caused by several types of cancer, including:

• Colorectal cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Gastric (stomach) cancer
• Appendiceal cancer
• Mesothelioma (a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen)

While traditional chemotherapy is effective at treating cancer that has spread to other parts of the body, it often has limited success in targeting tumors that have spread to the peritoneum. HIPEC addresses this challenge by delivering chemotherapy directly to the affected area, providing a more targeted and potent treatment.

How Does HIPEC Surgery Work?

HIPEC surgery is typically performed in two main stages:

1. Surgical Tumor Removal (Cytoreductive Surgery)

The first step in HIPEC involves cytoreductive surgery, where the surgeon removes as much of the visible tumor as possible from the abdominal cavity. This surgery is crucial, as the effectiveness of HIPEC depends on how much of the tumor burden can be removed. In some cases, the tumor may have spread extensively, requiring a more complex procedure to remove affected organs or tissues.

The goal of cytoreductive surgery is to leave as little residual cancer behind as possible, ensuring that the chemotherapy can effectively target any remaining cancer cells.

2. Heated Chemotherapy (HIPEC)

Once the visible tumors have been removed, the next step is the administration of heated chemotherapy. A catheter (thin tube) is inserted into the abdominal cavity, and a warm solution of chemotherapy drugs is pumped into the area. The chemotherapy solution is heated to a temperature of about 42°C (107.6°F), which has been shown to increase the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drugs in killing cancer cells.

The heated chemotherapy solution is allowed to circulate throughout the abdominal cavity for approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This targeted, localized approach allows the chemotherapy to directly reach the cancer cells while avoiding damage to other parts of the body.

After the chemotherapy has had sufficient time to work, it is drained from the body, and the surgical incision is closed.

Benefits of HIPEC Surgery

HIPEC offers several benefits, particularly for patients with abdominal cancers that cannot be fully treated through traditional methods. Some key benefits of the procedure include:

1. Increased Effectiveness of Chemotherapy

HIPEC allows chemotherapy to be delivered directly to the tumor site, increasing the drug's concentration and effectiveness. This localized treatment can be much more potent than systemic chemotherapy, which is spread throughout the body and often has reduced effectiveness against tumors in the abdominal cavity.

2. Improved Survival Rates

Studies have shown that patients who undergo HIPEC after cytoreductive surgery for certain cancers, particularly peritoneal carcinomatosis, may experience improved survival rates compared to those who only receive systemic chemotherapy. The ability to target tumors directly increases the chances of eliminating residual cancer cells.

3. Fewer Side Effects

Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which is delivered through the bloodstream and affects the entire body, HIPEC primarily targets the abdominal cavity, minimizing exposure to the rest of the body. This localized approach often leads to fewer systemic side effects, such as hair loss, nausea, and fatigue, that are commonly associated with traditional chemotherapy treatments.

4. Potential for Long-Term Remission

For patients with certain types of cancer, particularly those with peritoneal carcinomatosis, HIPEC offers the potential for long-term remission. By effectively treating cancer cells in the abdominal cavity, it helps reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence in the future.

Risks and Considerations of HIPEC Surgery

While HIPEC surgery can be highly effective, it is not without risks. As with any major surgery, there are potential complications that patients should be aware of, including:

1. Infection

The risk of infection is present with any surgical procedure, and HIPEC surgery is no exception. The use of heated chemotherapy also carries the potential for chemical irritation or injury to surrounding tissues, which may increase the risk of infection.

2. Complications from Chemotherapy

Although chemotherapy is delivered directly to the abdominal cavity, there can still be side effects, including damage to the liver, kidneys, or other organs. In rare cases, the chemotherapy drugs may cause bowel perforations or other gastrointestinal complications.

3. Extended Recovery Time

HIPEC is a complex procedure that typically requires an extended recovery period. Patients may need to stay in the hospital for several days after surgery, and the recovery process can take weeks or even months, depending on the individual’s overall health and the extent of the surgery.

4. Not Suitable for All Patients

HIPEC surgery is not suitable for every patient. The procedure is generally only recommended for individuals whose cancer is limited to the abdominal cavity and who are in good overall health. If the cancer has spread to other areas of the body, or if the tumors are too widespread, HIPEC may not be effective.

Is HIPEC Surgery Right for You?

If you have been diagnosed with peritoneal carcinomatosis or another type of abdominal cancer, your doctor may recommend HIPEC as part of your treatment plan. To determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure, your doctor will assess your overall health, the extent of the cancer, and other factors that may influence your ability to undergo surgery.

At Fortis Healthcare, our team of experienced surgeons and oncologists will work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your medical needs and goals. We understand that cancer treatment can be overwhelming, but with options like HIPEC, we are committed to providing you with the best possible care to improve your chances of recovery and long-term health.

Conclusion

HIPEC surgery is an innovative and highly targeted treatment for certain types of cancer, particularly those that have spread to the abdominal cavity. By combining surgical tumor removal with heated chemotherapy, HIPEC offers the potential for improved survival rates, fewer side effects, and a better quality of life for patients. If you or a loved one is considering HIPEC surgery, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in this procedure to determine the best course of action.

At Fortis Healthcare, we are dedicated to offering state-of-the-art cancer treatments, including HIPEC, to help you fight cancer with confidence. Our compassionate team is here to guide you through every step of your journey to recovery.