HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)
A highly specialized, two-part procedure performed in select cases of advanced abdominal cancers. First, Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) removes all visible tumors from the abdominal cavity. Immediately after, heated chemotherapy solution is circulated directly within the abdomen for a specific period.
Recovery Timeline
- Hospital Stay: 7–14 days
- Initial Recovery: 4–8 weeks
- Full Recovery: May take 2–3 months
- Long-Term Monitoring: Regular follow-ups for cancer recurrence and healing progress
Diet and Lifestyle
- Start with a liquid or soft diet, then slowly return to normal food.
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Avoid strenuous activity for at least 6–8 weeks.
- Eat small, frequent meals to avoid nausea or bloating.
Diagnostic Tests
- CT Scan or MRI
- PET-CT Scan
- Blood Tests
- Laparoscopy
- Biopsy
Treatment
- Targeted Chemotherapy (in HIPEC)
- Cytoreductive Surgery + HIPEC
- Post-HIPEC Chemotherapy
Surgical Options
- Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS): Removal of visible tumors in the abdominal cavity.
- HIPEC Procedure: Heated chemotherapy is circulated inside the abdominal cavity for 60–90 minutes immediately after tumor removal.
- Goal: Kill microscopic cancer cells left behind after tumor removal.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Unexplained weight loss
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
