Understanding Peritoneal Malignancies and HIPEC Surgery: A Potential Breakthrough in Cancer Treatment

Peritoneal malignancies represent an advanced form of cancer where the disease spreads into the abdominal cavity. This condition arises when cancer from organs such as the ovaries, intestines, or other abdominal structures metastasizes to the peritoneal (abdominal lining) surfaces. Traditionally, the prognosis for such patients was grim, with survival rates averaging six months to a year. However, advancements in surgical oncology have brought hope in the form of cytoreductive surgery combined with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC).

Dr. Sandeep Nayak recently hosted a discussion with surgical oncology experts, Dr. Bharat and Dr. Srikanth Reddy, to shed light on this innovative treatment approach. Here’s an in-depth overview of what they shared.

What Are Peritoneal Malignancies?

Peritoneal malignancies occur when cancer spreads across the abdominal cavity, affecting the surfaces of the peritoneum. These cancers can originate from various abdominal organs, including:

• Ovaries
• Intestines
• Liver capsule
• Appendix

Introducing HIPEC Surgery

Dr. Srikanth Reddy explained that HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) is a cutting-edge procedure designed to treat peritoneal malignancies. This treatment combines two essential steps:

Cytoreductive Surgery

• The goal of cytoreductive surgery is to remove all visible cancer from the abdominal cavity.
• Surgeons meticulously excise affected tissues and organs where the cancer has spread.
• Commonly removed areas include:
• Portions of the intestines
• Peritoneal surfaces
• Ovaries and uterus (in females)
• Vestigial organs like the appendix and gallbladder

HIPEC Procedure

• After cytoreduction, HIPEC involves circulating heated chemotherapy directly within the abdominal cavity for 60-90 minutes.
• The chemotherapy solution is chosen based on the origin of the cancer and heated to enhance its effectiveness.
• The direct application allows the chemotherapy to target remaining microscopic cancer cells while minimizing systemic side effects.

Why HIPEC Is Revolutionary

Dr. Srikanth emphasized the transformative potential of HIPEC. By combining cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC, patients now have a chance at long-term survival, and in some cases, even a cure. This approach is particularly significant for cancers like ovarian, colorectal, and appendiceal cancers that have spread within the peritoneum.

Conclusion

The advent of HIPEC surgery marks a significant leap forward in the treatment of peritoneal malignancies. This procedure offers renewed hope for patients who previously had limited options. With experienced surgical teams and advancements in technology, HIPEC is opening doors to potential cures and improved quality of life for patients battling advanced abdominal cancers.

For individuals diagnosed with peritoneal malignancies, consulting with a specialist is crucial to determine the suitability of HIPEC as a treatment option.

Dr. Sandeep Nayak P | Fortis Hospital BG Road Bangalore