Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a relatively new and promising treatment option for many aggressive abdominal cancers. Tumours like pseudomyxoma peritnoneii (appendicular cancer), colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, and mesothelioma which have spread within the abdominal cavity can be controlled and sometimes even cured by this treatment modality.

All visible tumour within the abdomen must be removed by an extensive and complex operation (complete cytoreductive surgery). Soon after (during the same operation), a special machine is used to circulate heated chemotherapy at around 43°C throughout the abdominal cavity. In doing so, all microscopic disease (which cannot be seen by the naked eye) will be killed by the chemotherapy through direct contact. This method of administering chemotherapy also has the advantage of causing decreased toxicity to the body, as the other body parts outside the abdomen are spared from the side-effects.

This therapy has been shown to increase a patient’s life span with a good quality of life. It is generally a one-time therapy, but occasionally can be repeated if deemed necessary. Not all patients are candidates for this form of therapy. The tumour must be restricted to the abdomen and the patient must be generally fit to tolerate the major procedure. For many tumours chemotherapy is administered through the blood stream first to decrease the bulk of the tumour and also assess the response.

The global awareness regarding HIPEC is on the rise and many patients are benefiting from it. In India, we are also generating robust evidence regarding the outcomes of complete cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC and sharing it with the world through publications and registries.

HIPEC must be performed only in high-quality experienced centers to ensure good results. We are a high-volume center and one of the pioneers of the HIPEC procedure in Delhi NCR, with an experience of more than 5 years. Our dedicated team continuously strives to ensure each patient receives the best possible treatment. In otherwise despondent circumstances, we are here to provide hope for patients with extensive peritoneal cancer.