Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a targeted cancer treatment where heated chemotherapy is circulated in the abdominal cavity post-tumor removal, minimizing systemic toxicity and improving drug effectiveness.

What is Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherpy?

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an innovative cancer treatment technique designed for abdominal cancers. It’s administered after the surgical removal of visible tumors in the abdomen. In this procedure, a heated chemotherapy drug, often cisplatin, is circulated inside the abdominal cavity at around 103 degrees Fahrenheit (42 degrees Celsius). This process is conducted while the patient lies on a cooling blanket to regulate body temperature. The heating of the chemotherapy drug is a critical aspect as it enhances the drug’s effectiveness and aids in better penetration into cancerous tissues. The patient’s abdomen is gently rocked for about two hours during the procedure to ensure thorough coverage and contact of the chemotherapy with all abdominal surfaces. This approach allows for a high concentration of the chemotherapy drug to be directed precisely where it is most needed, while greatly reducing systemic exposure and toxicity. HIPEC is effectively used in both adult and pediatric patients for treating various abdominal cancers, including soft tissue sarcomas, appendix cancer, Wilms’ tumor, and desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT). Following the procedure, patients often require nutritional support through a feeding tube or IV as the digestive system recovers.

How Does HIPEC Fight Cancer?

HIPEC combats cancer by directly applying heated chemotherapy into the abdominal cavity after tumor removal. The heat enhances chemotherapy effectiveness, allowing deeper penetration into residual cancerous tissues. By concentrating the treatment area, HIPEC targets any remaining cancer cells post-surgery, reducing the likelihood of recurrence. The localized application also limits overall toxicity, focusing the drug’s impact on the affected area. This approach is particularly effective for various abdominal cancers, providing a potent treatment while minimizing systemic side effects.

Types of Cancer Treated with HIPEC

HIPEC is primarily used for treating abdominal cancers, including soft tissue sarcomas, appendix cancer, Wilms’ tumor, desmoplastic small round cell tumors (DSRCT), and other malignancies located in the abdominal cavity. It’s applicable for both adult and pediatric patients.

Blogs and Articles

Health articles that keep you informed about good health practices and achieve your goals.