Dr Jitender Rohila, a renowned surgeon and consultant at Fortis Hospital, explains the cutting-edge surgical procedures of HIPEC and PIPAC, which are transforming the treatment of peritoneal surface cancers. These techniques involve delivering heated chemotherapy directly to the abdominal cavity or aerosol chemotherapy under pressure, resulting in improved drug absorption and reduced side effects. While HIPEC is suitable for patients who have undergone cytoreductive surgery for abdominal cancers, PIPAC offers promising options for those with advanced diseases or seeking additional treatment after surgery.
Innovations in Cancer Treatment: HIPEC and PIPAC for Peritoneal Surface Cancers
Introduction:
World Cancer Day is an annual global event held on February 4th to raise awareness and mobilize action against the disease. This year, the focus is on closing the care gap and ensuring that everyone has access to essential cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and care services.
One of the challenges in cancer treatment is addressing peritoneal surface malignancies, which are tumors that develop on the lining of the abdominal cavity. Traditional surgical approaches have limitations in removing all cancerous tissue and achieving optimal outcomes. However, recent advances in surgical techniques offer new hope for patients with these cancers.
HIPEC and PIPAC: Cutting-Edge Surgical Procedures
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) and PIPAC (Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy) are two innovative surgical procedures that have revolutionized the treatment of peritoneal surface cancers.
HIPEC
HIPEC involves delivering heated chemotherapy directly to the abdominal cavity during cytoreductive surgery. Cytoreductive surgery aims to remove as much visible cancerous tissue as possible. HIPEC enhances its effectiveness by delivering high concentrations of chemotherapy drugs directly to the affected area. The heated chemotherapy improves drug absorption and reduces systemic side effects.
PIPAC
PIPAC is an alternative technique that uses a pressurized aerosol to deliver chemotherapy drugs to the abdominal cavity. This targeted delivery ensures optimal drug distribution and reduces the risk of systemic toxicity. PIPAC can be used as a standalone treatment or in combination with surgery or other therapies for more advanced or recurrent peritoneal surface cancers.
Benefits of HIPEC and PIPAC
Both HIPEC and PIPAC offer several benefits over traditional surgical approaches:
Who is a Candidate for HIPEC or PIPAC?
Top 5 FAQs on HIPEC and PIPAC
What are the indications for HIPEC and PIPAC? For HIPEC: patients with peritoneal surface malignancies who have undergone cytoreductive surgery. For PIPAC: patients with advanced or recurrent peritoneal surface cancers or those seeking additional treatment after surgery.
How is HIPEC performed? During cytoreductive surgery, heated chemotherapy is continuously circulated through the abdominal cavity for 60-120 minutes.
How is PIPAC performed? A pressurized aerosol is used to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to the abdominal cavity through a small incision.
What are the potential side effects of HIPEC and PIPAC? Side effects may include fever, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. Severe side effects are rare.
What are the long-term outcomes of HIPEC and PIPAC? Studies have shown improved survival rates and reduced recurrence risks in patients undergoing HIPEC or PIPAC.
Conclusion:
HIPEC and PIPAC are pioneering surgical techniques that have transformed the treatment of peritoneal surface cancers. By delivering chemotherapy directly to the affected area, these procedures offer increased effectiveness and reduced side effects. As research continues, further advancements in these techniques promise to improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for patients with peritoneal surface malignancies.
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