Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a targeted cancer treatment that combines cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with the direct infusion of heated chemotherapy into the abdominal cavity to eliminate microscopic cancer cells remaining after tumor removal. This procedure is primarily used for peritoneal carcinomatosis, a condition where cancer spreads to the peritoneum—the lining of the abdominal cavity—from primary sites such as the colon, appendix, stomach, ovaries, or mesothelioma. Developed in the late 20th century, HIPEC leverages hyperthermia (typically 41–43°C) to enhance the penetration and cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents like mitomycin C, cisplatin, or oxaliplatin, allowing higher drug concentrations in the peritoneum while minimizing systemic exposure. The treatment process begins with CRS, a complex surgery lasting 6–12 hours to excise all visible tumors from abdominal organs and the , often requiring peritonectomy and organ resection to achieve complete cytoreduction. Following this, the abdominal cavity is temporarily isolated, and a heated solution is circulated for 30–90 minutes using either an open (coliseum) or closed technique to ensure even distribution. HIPEC is indicated for patients with limited peritoneal , assessed via the Peritoneal Cancer Index (), typically those with PCI <20 for colorectal origins, and in good overall health to tolerate the procedure's demands. It is performed in specialized centers by trained surgical oncologists, as it requires multidisciplinary expertise. Clinical evidence supports HIPEC's role in improving outcomes for select patients; for instance, it has extended median survival to over 40 months in peritoneal metastases from when combined with CRS, surpassing systemic chemotherapy alone in randomized trials. Benefits include reduced recurrence rates and potential for long-term remission or cure in cases like appendiceal mucinous neoplasms or . However, it carries significant risks, with morbidity rates around 33% and mortality near 3%, including complications such as bowel perforation, infection, hematologic toxicity, and kidney injury from the chemotherapy. Ongoing research, including phase III trials, continues to refine patient selection, drug regimens, and techniques to optimize efficacy while addressing controversies, such as variable survival benefits observed in recent studies for .

Overview and Indications

Definition and rationale

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a multimodal therapeutic approach that combines cytoreductive surgery with the intraoperative delivery of heated chemotherapeutic agents directly into the peritoneal cavity to eradicate microscopic residual disease in patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. This procedure involves perfusing a warmed chemotherapy solution, typically maintained at 41–43°C, through the peritoneal space for 60–90 minutes immediately following surgical tumor debulking, as part of an overall operative duration of 6–12 hours. Peritoneal carcinomatosis, the primary target of HIPEC, has long been recognized as a distinct clinical entity characterized by locoregional dissemination within the confined peritoneal cavity, driven by mechanical factors such as gravity, peristalsis, and diaphragmatic movement rather than hematogenous or lymphatic spread typical of distant metastases. Historically viewed as a terminal condition with dismal prognosis due to its resistance to systemic therapies, peritoneal carcinomatosis was reconceptualized in the late 20th century as amenable to localized interventions, shifting from models of widespread metastatic disease to targeted regional treatment strategies that address its unique pathophysiology of transmesothelial seeding and adhesion. This paradigm, pioneered in the 1970s through pharmacokinetic models and first clinically applied in 1980 for pseudomyxoma peritonei, underscored the need for therapies exploiting the peritoneum's anatomical isolation. The rationale for HIPEC stems from its ability to overcome the limitations of systemic chemotherapy by achieving markedly higher local drug concentrations—up to 20-fold greater than intravenous administration—while minimizing systemic exposure through the peritoneal-plasma barrier, a semipermeable structure that restricts drug diffusion into the bloodstream. This barrier enables dose intensification directly at the tumor site, with area under the curve ratios such as 23.5 for mitomycin C, enhancing cytotoxicity against residual microscopic disease. Additionally, hyperthermia at 41–43°C exerts direct tumoricidal effects by selectively damaging malignant cells through mechanisms like increased lysosomal instability and impaired DNA repair, while synergistically potentiating chemotherapy penetration and efficacy without significantly harming normal tissues.

Specific indications

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), typically combined with cytoreductive surgery (CRS), is primarily indicated for peritoneal surface malignancies, where it targets microscopic residual disease following maximal tumor debulking. The therapy is most established for appendiceal tumors, including low-grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasms and pseudomyxoma peritonei, where strong evidence from multiple retrospective and prospective studies supports improved long-term survival in patients achieving complete cytoreduction. For peritoneal carcinomatosis originating from colorectal cancer, HIPEC is recommended in select cases with limited disease burden, though recent randomized trials have shown mixed results regarding overall survival benefits compared to CRS alone. In ovarian cancer, HIPEC demonstrates emerging evidence from phase III trials such as the CHIPOR trial (2023), which in patients with first platinum-sensitive recurrence of epithelial ovarian cancer demonstrated significant improvements in overall survival and peritoneal progression-free survival with the addition of cisplatin-based HIPEC (75 mg/m² at 41°C for 60 minutes) to cytoreductive surgery following platinum/taxane-based systemic chemotherapy. A 2025 meta-analysis of randomized trials further supports improved overall survival with HIPEC added to cytoreductive surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in primary advanced ovarian cancer (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.58–0.89), though with higher grade 3–4 adverse events. For gastric cancer with peritoneal metastases, indications are more limited, with systematic reviews indicating potential survival gains in highly selected patients but insufficient high-level evidence to endorse routine use outside clinical trials. Peritoneal mesothelioma, including epithelioid subtypes, represents another core indication, where CRS and HIPEC are considered the standard of care, yielding median overall survival exceeding 50 months in patients with low peritoneal disease extent. HIPEC has also been explored for bladder cancer-related peritoneal carcinomatosis, though evidence remains anecdotal and confined to case series demonstrating feasibility in limited peritoneal spread. Beyond established metastatic scenarios, prophylactic HIPEC is considered in non-metastatic, high-risk patients following resection of primary tumors prone to peritoneal involvement, such as T4-stage colorectal or gastric cancers, to mitigate future metastasis risk; phase 3 trials such as HIPECT4 (2023) have demonstrated feasibility, improved locoregional control, and reduced recurrence rates without excessive morbidity. Candidacy for HIPEC across these indications is guided by the Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI), a standardized scoring system evaluating tumor distribution and size across 13 abdominal regions, with scores below 20 generally favoring better outcomes and procedural suitability, while higher scores often correlate with incomplete cytoreduction and diminished efficacy.

Patient Selection

Eligibility criteria

Patient selection for hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) involves a comprehensive multidisciplinary evaluation by a team comprising surgeons, medical oncologists, radiologists, and anesthesiologists to ensure suitability for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with HIPEC. This process is critical for patients with peritoneal metastases from cancers such as ovarian or colorectal origins, where HIPEC may offer survival benefits when complete resection is feasible. Preoperative assessment begins with advanced imaging modalities, including computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET)-CT, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to evaluate disease extent and detect occult metastases, though these have limitations in sensitivity for small peritoneal deposits. Diagnostic laparoscopy is often employed as the gold standard for accurate Peritoneal Cancer Index (PCI) scoring, which quantifies tumor burden and predicts resectability, with lower PCI scores (typically ≤20, varying by primary cancer type such as colorectal) favoring eligibility. Additionally, patients must demonstrate good performance status, such as Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score of 0–2, indicating minimal functional impairment and ability to tolerate the procedure. A key requirement is the potential for achieving completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score of 0 or 1, defined as no visible residual disease or nodules ≤2.5 mm post-CRS, as incomplete resection (CC-2 or higher) significantly diminishes HIPEC's efficacy. Systemic factors are rigorously assessed, including adequate renal and hepatic function (e.g., creatinine clearance >60 mL/min and normal liver enzymes) to withstand stress and exposure. Eligibility further mandates absence of extra-abdominal metastases and evidence of response or stable disease to recent systemic , ensuring limited disease progression. Prognostic stratification integrates PCI with histological subtype, as aggressive features like signet-ring cell morphology portend poorer outcomes and may influence selection, often using tools such as nomograms for refined risk assessment.

Contraindications

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is contraindicated in patients where the potential risks substantially outweigh any therapeutic benefits, primarily due to the procedure's high morbidity and mortality associated with extensive cytoreductive surgery. Absolute contraindications preclude HIPEC entirely, as they indicate scenarios where complete cytoreduction is impossible or systemic complications render the intervention unsafe. These include extensive extra-abdominal disease, such as distant metastases beyond the peritoneum, which cannot be addressed by intraperitoneal therapy alone. Poor performance status, defined as Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score greater than 2, signals inadequate physiological reserve to tolerate the surgical stress. Unresectable bowel obstruction, particularly multifocal malignant involvement, poses an insurmountable barrier due to the risk of incomplete resection and postoperative complications. Additionally, a high peritoneal cancer index (PCI) score exceeding 20 in most cases indicates diffuse peritoneal involvement that precludes effective cytoreduction, as referenced in eligibility assessments. Relative contraindications warrant careful multidisciplinary evaluation, as they may allow HIPEC in select patients with optimized supportive care but increase the likelihood of adverse outcomes. Advanced age over 75 years is a key relative factor, correlating with diminished recovery capacity and higher risks. Significant comorbidities, such as severe cardiac disease, renal impairment, or , compromise organ function and elevate the chance of during and exposure. Recent major can lead to extensive adhesions, hindering intraoperative access and drug distribution, though this is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Disease progression despite systemic further suggests limited responsiveness, making HIPEC less viable. Ethical considerations in managing contraindicated patients emphasize robust informed consent processes to ensure comprehension of the procedure's risks, including potential for prolonged recovery or futility in ineligible cases. Multidisciplinary teams must transparently discuss why HIPEC is unsuitable, highlighting the balance between aggressive intervention and preservation. For patients with contraindications, alternatives focus on non-surgical options to control disease and alleviate symptoms. Systemic remains the cornerstone, targeting peritoneal and distant spread through intravenous administration while avoiding surgical risks. In cases of advanced or refractory , palliative care approaches, including symptom management and supportive therapies, are prioritized to optimize comfort and longevity.

Procedure

Cytoreductive surgery

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is the foundational component of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) treatment for peritoneal malignancies, involving the systematic removal of all visible macroscopic tumor deposits to optimize subsequent delivery. This procedure encompasses multi-visceral peritonectomy techniques and targeted organ resections, such as omentectomy and when necessary, to achieve complete or near-complete cytoreduction. Developed by Paul Sugarbaker, CRS aims to eliminate gross disease from the , thereby enhancing the efficacy of HIPEC in targeting residual microscopic cells. The extent of CRS is meticulously tailored to the patient's Peritoneal Cancer Index (), a scoring system that quantifies across 13 abdominal regions and the small bowel, with scores ranging from 0 to 39. Low PCI values (typically <20 for colorectal carcinomatosis) favor comprehensive procedures, including stripping of peritoneal surfaces such as the diaphragm, pelvis, and abdominal wall, while higher scores may limit interventions to feasible sites to avoid excessive morbidity. Involved organs undergo resection, for instance, greater omentectomy to clear the omental bursa or splenectomy if tumor infiltration affects the splenic hilum, alongside bowel resections for serosal implants. This site-specific approach ensures maximal tumor debulking without unnecessary radicality. Performed under general anesthesia, CRS typically lasts 6 to 12 hours, depending on disease complexity and PCI, with meticulous hemostasis required prior to HIPEC initiation. Intraoperative frozen section pathology is routinely employed to confirm malignant involvement of tissues and guide resection margins, ensuring accurate assessment of tumor extent during the procedure. The success of CRS is evaluated using Sugarbaker's Completeness of Cytoreduction (CC) score, a validated metric that predicts long-term outcomes and survival. A CC-0 score indicates no visible residual disease, while CC-1 denotes complete cytoreduction with nodules smaller than 2.5 mm; achievement of CC-0 or CC-1 is associated with significantly improved median survival compared to incomplete scores (CC-2 or CC-3). This scoring system underscores CRS's prognostic value, with optimal cytoreduction rates reported in 70-90% of selected cases.

HIPEC delivery

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) delivery occurs immediately following cytoreductive surgery, involving the infusion of heated chemotherapy-laden dialysate into the peritoneal cavity to target residual microscopic disease. The peritoneal space is filled with 1.5 to 2 liters per square meter of body surface area (typically 2–3 liters total for an average adult) of a carrier solution, such as 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose, mixed with the selected chemotherapeutic agent. This solution is preheated and circulated using a dedicated perfusion system equipped with a roller pump and heat exchanger to maintain a target intraperitoneal temperature of 41–43°C, with inflow temperatures adjusted to 43–45°C to compensate for heat loss. The circulation occurs at a flow rate of approximately 1 liter per minute through inflow and outflow catheters placed in the upper and lower abdominal quadrants, ensuring adequate distribution for a duration of 60–90 minutes, though shorter intervals of 30–60 minutes may be used depending on the regimen. Monitoring during HIPEC is critical to ensure safety and efficacy, involving multiple temperature probes positioned at the inflow line, peritoneal sites (such as the pelvis, liver, and mesentery), and outflow drains to verify that the target temperature is achieved uniformly without exceeding 43°C to avoid thermal injury. Inflow and outflow catheters facilitate continuous circulation and allow for real-time assessment of perfusate flow and pressure, while hemodynamic support includes invasive monitoring of arterial and central venous pressures, fluid resuscitation, and vasopressors like dopamine to maintain urine output above 100 mL per 15 minutes and prevent systemic toxicity. The procedure requires a specialized team in an equipped operating room to manage these parameters, as elevated intra-abdominal pressures and hyperthermia can impact cardiovascular stability. Pharmacological principles of HIPEC delivery emphasize achieving high local drug concentrations with minimal systemic absorption, facilitated by either a closed or open circuit system. In the closed technique, the abdomen is temporarily sutured shut after catheter placement, allowing for higher intra-abdominal pressures (10–20 mmHg) that enhance peritoneal surface penetration and uniform drug distribution, though it requires larger perfusate volumes and risks incomplete mixing without manual intervention. The open technique, often using a "Coliseum" setup where the abdominal wall is elevated and covered with a plastic barrier, permits direct surgeon manipulation for even distribution and immediate access but exposes the operative team to potential aerosolized chemotherapy, necessitating protective measures. Both approaches leverage hyperthermia to activate the drug's cytotoxic effects locally while the closed system may better mimic physiological pressures for deeper tissue penetration. Upon completion of the perfusion cycle, the procedure is terminated by draining the chemotherapy perfusate through the outflow catheters, followed by copious lavage of the peritoneal cavity with warmed crystalloid solution (typically 5–10 liters) to remove residual drug and debris before proceeding to abdominal closure and any necessary anastomoses. This step minimizes postoperative toxicity and ensures a clean operative field, with total drainage volumes monitored to confirm complete evacuation.

Surgical techniques

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) can be delivered using several surgical techniques, each designed to optimize the distribution of heated chemotherapeutic agents within the peritoneal cavity while balancing efficacy, safety, and procedural feasibility. The primary variations include the open technique, the closed technique, and laparoscopy-enhanced approaches, with selection influenced by disease characteristics and clinical context. These methods aim to achieve uniform hyperthermia (typically 41-43°C) and drug penetration, though they differ in abdominal access and circulation mechanics. The open technique, often referred to as the Coliseum method, involves leaving the abdomen open after cytoreductive surgery, with the skin edges elevated using a self-retaining retractor to create a reservoir for the perfusate. A Tenckhoff catheter serves as the inflow, while multiple outflow drains facilitate circulation, allowing manual manipulation of the intestines to ensure even distribution of the heated solution over 30-90 minutes. This approach provides direct visualization and access, enabling surgeons to address any pooling or uneven exposure, which enhances uniformity of chemotherapy delivery. However, it is associated with greater heat loss to the environment, prolonging the time to reach target temperatures, and increased risk of aerosolized drug exposure to operating room personnel. In contrast, the closed technique seals the abdomen with sutures following cytoreduction, creating a pressurized circuit where inflow and outflow catheters circulate the perfusate, often augmented by manual agitation of the abdominal wall. This method achieves and maintains hyperthermia more rapidly due to minimal heat dissipation and can enhance drug penetration through elevated intra-abdominal pressure. It reduces environmental contamination risks, making it safer for staff. Drawbacks include potential uneven distribution in complex peritoneal geometries, risk of localized overheating leading to organ injury, and challenges in monitoring for leaks during perfusion. Laparoscopy-enhanced HIPEC represents a minimally invasive variant, utilizing small incisions and trocars to access the peritoneal cavity for low-volume disease or prophylactic applications, such as treating malignant ascites or early-stage peritoneal metastases in gastric or colorectal cancers. Heated chemotherapy is instilled and circulated via laparoscopic ports, often for shorter durations, allowing for diagnostic assessment and limited cytoreduction if needed. This technique reduces postoperative recovery time and morbidity compared to open procedures, though evidence remains limited by small studies. It is particularly suited for patients unfit for major laparotomy, but requires advanced endoscopic skills to ensure adequate distribution. The choice of technique depends on factors such as tumor location and extent, which may favor open methods for diffuse upper abdominal disease requiring manual distribution, or closed approaches for pelvic-focused lesions benefiting from pressure-enhanced penetration. Surgeon expertise plays a critical role, as familiarity with equipment and troubleshooting influences procedural safety and outcomes. Institutional protocols, including available perfusion systems and multidisciplinary support, further guide selection, with no definitive superiority demonstrated across techniques in terms of survival efficacy.

Mechanism of Action

Effects of hyperthermia

Hyperthermia in (HIPEC) directly induces cytotoxicity in cancer cells through mechanisms such as protein denaturation, DNA damage, and apoptosis, particularly at temperatures of 41–43°C. These elevated temperatures disrupt the structural integrity of heat-sensitive proteins, including enzymes and cytoskeletal components, leading to irreversible cellular dysfunction and programmed cell death. Cancer cells demonstrate a steeper thermal kill curve compared to normal cells, owing to their elevated basal metabolic rates, accumulation of heat shock proteins, and impaired stress response pathways, which render them more vulnerable to thermal stress. In addition to direct cell killing, hyperthermia modulates vascular dynamics in the peritoneal cavity, enhancing blood flow and vascular permeability to improve drug delivery to tumors. By inducing vasodilation, hyperthermia increases peritoneal perfusion from baseline levels of 60–100 mL/min, which reduces interstitial fluid pressure and facilitates greater penetration of chemotherapeutic agents into tumor nodules. This vascular response contrasts with effects in some solid tumors, where hyperthermia may cause stasis, but in the peritoneal setting, it promotes oxygenation and nutrient delivery that indirectly support immune-mediated tumor clearance. Hyperthermia also exerts synergistic sensitization effects by inhibiting DNA repair mechanisms, thereby increasing the vulnerability of cancer cells to alkylating agents commonly used in HIPEC, such as cisplatin and mitomycin C. At temperatures above 39–40°C, heat impairs repair enzymes like those in the base excision repair pathway, leading to accumulated DNA lesions and enhanced chemotherapeutic cytotoxicity. This sensitization is temperature-dependent, with maximal synergy observed in the 41–43°C range, amplifying cell death without substantially affecting normal peritoneal tissues. Optimal hyperthermia parameters in HIPEC target a temperature of 42°C sustained for approximately 60 minutes to balance efficacy and safety. This threshold achieves significant tumoricidal activity while preserving peritoneal integrity, as exposure above 43°C risks excessive damage to surrounding healthy tissues, including coagulation necrosis and systemic inflammatory responses.

Drug distribution and synergy

In hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), peritoneal pharmacokinetics are characterized by limited systemic absorption due to the peritoneal-plasma barrier, which restricts drug passage into the bloodstream and allows for sustained high concentrations in the peritoneal cavity. This results in an area under the curve (AUC) that is 15–20 times higher locally compared to systemic levels, enabling dose intensification targeted at peritoneal metastases without excessive systemic toxicity. The penetration depth of chemotherapeutic agents during HIPEC typically reaches 2–5 mm into peritoneal tissues, a range enhanced by hyperthermia, which induces convection through increased tumor perfusion and reduced interstitial pressure. Hyperthermia facilitates this deeper drug distribution by altering vascular permeability and promoting convective transport, surpassing the 0.1–1 mm penetration seen in normothermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. Synergy between hyperthermia and chemotherapy in HIPEC arises from heat's ability to increase cell membrane fluidity, thereby improving drug uptake and intracellular accumulation. For instance, with cisplatin, hyperthermia accelerates DNA platination and enhances cytotoxicity, as the elevated temperatures (typically 42–43°C) potentiate the drug's binding to DNA and inhibit repair mechanisms. This interaction is most pronounced above 39°C, where heat synergizes with the chemotherapeutic agent's direct effects. Following HIPEC perfusion, drug clearance occurs rapidly through drainage of the perfusate from the peritoneal cavity, often supplemented by flushing with dialysis solutions to minimize residual exposure. This process typically removes 80–90% of the administered drug within 90 minutes, depending on the agent, thereby limiting prolonged systemic absorption and supporting the procedure's pharmacokinetic profile.

Chemotherapy Agents

Common drugs

Mitomycin C, an alkylating agent, is one of the most frequently used chemotherapeutic drugs in HIPEC, particularly for peritoneal metastases originating from colorectal and appendiceal cancers. It exhibits high stability at hyperthermic temperatures, allowing for prolonged perfusion durations of up to 90 minutes at 41–42°C without significant degradation. Typical dosing ranges from 10–30 mg/m² body surface area, making it suitable for direct intraperitoneal delivery to target residual microscopic disease after cytoreductive surgery. Cisplatin, a platinum-based compound, is commonly employed in HIPEC protocols for ovarian cancer and peritoneal mesothelioma, where it effectively penetrates peritoneal surfaces to address microscopic tumor cells. Hyperthermia enhances its cytotoxicity by increasing cellular uptake, inhibiting DNA repair, and promoting synergistic tumor cell death, particularly at temperatures above 41°C. Dosing typically falls between 100–200 mg/m², often administered over 60–90 minutes to maximize intraperitoneal exposure while minimizing systemic absorption. Paclitaxel, a taxane agent, is frequently used in HIPEC for advanced ovarian cancer, often in combination with cisplatin, to target residual peritoneal disease. Hyperthermia improves its penetration and antitumor activity by disrupting microtubule function and inducing apoptosis at elevated temperatures. Typical dosing is 175 mg/m², administered over 60–90 minutes at 41–42°C. Oxaliplatin, another platinum agent, is primarily indicated for colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis in HIPEC settings, offering efficacy against 5-fluorouracil-resistant tumors. Due to its relative instability at elevated temperatures, treatment durations are shorter, usually 30 minutes at 42–43°C, compared to more thermally stable agents. Common doses range from 300–460 mg/m², which supports high local concentrations for improved peritoneal clearance. Other agents include doxorubicin, an anthracycline used for primary peritoneal sarcomas and certain sarcomatous malignancies, leveraging its broad-spectrum activity against soft tissue tumors during 90-minute perfusions at 41.5°C. Irinotecan, a topoisomerase inhibitor, is applied in gastric cancer with peritoneal involvement, often in combination regimens to enhance response in advanced cases. Drug selection and combinations are tailored to the primary tumor histology, such as cisplatin plus doxorubicin for mesothelioma or oxaliplatin with irinotecan for colorectal origins, to optimize therapeutic outcomes based on tumor-specific sensitivities.

Dosing and administration

Dosing in (HIPEC) typically involves calculating drug amounts based on either body surface area (BSA) in mg/m² or peritoneal dialysate volume in mg/L, with the choice depending on the protocol and institution to optimize intraperitoneal exposure while minimizing systemic absorption. For colorectal peritoneal metastases, a standard regimen uses at 30 mg/L of carrier solution, administered over 90 minutes at 41–42°C, often with supplemental doses added at intervals to maintain concentration. In ovarian cancer, is commonly dosed at 100 mg/m² over 90 minutes at similar temperatures, though durations may vary from 60 to 120 minutes based on surgical factors. , frequently used for colorectal cases, employs shorter infusions of 30 minutes at doses of 300–460 mg/m² to leverage its heat sensitivity and rapid peritoneal penetration. Adjustments to these regimens account for patient-specific factors like BSA, which correlates with plasma drug levels and helps predict pharmacokinetic advantages, or dialysate volume to ensure uniform distribution in the abdominal cavity. For instance, in closed-abdomen techniques, higher concentrations such as 460 mg/m² for may be used compared to 360 mg/m² in open methods, reflecting differences in heat retention and fluid dynamics. Carrier solutions, typically 1.5–5% dextrose or 0.9% saline, are selected for their stability with chemotherapeutic agents and ability to maintain intraperitoneal volume, though dextrose-based options require caution due to risks of hyperglycemia and electrolyte shifts. Closed techniques generally permit higher drug concentrations than open approaches by reducing evaporative losses and enhancing pressure-driven distribution, though overall impacts on peritoneal drug levels remain modest across methods. Pharmacovigilance during HIPEC emphasizes real-time monitoring of plasma drug concentrations to detect excessive systemic exposure and prevent toxicity, with peak levels assessed via serial blood sampling to guide dose interruptions if thresholds are exceeded. This approach ensures safety, particularly for platinum-based agents like , where only 10–15% of the dose typically enters circulation during short infusions.

History

Early development

The foundational concepts leading to hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) emerged in the mid-20th century through early experiments addressing peritoneal carcinomatosis, a condition characterized by widespread cancer dissemination within the abdominal cavity. In the 1930s, pioneering surgeons like Joe V. Meigs introduced aggressive cytoreductive debulking procedures for advanced ovarian cancers, demonstrating improved survival by physically removing tumor burdens. These interventions laid the groundwork for targeted peritoneal treatments, emphasizing the potential of direct abdominal cavity access to manage localized disease. By the 1950s, preclinical research on hyperthermia's anticancer effects gained traction; for instance, O.S. Selawry and colleagues conducted in vitro studies showing that elevated temperatures inhibited the growth of malignant cells in tissue cultures, highlighting hyperthermia's cytotoxic potential. The 1980s marked key milestones in translating these ideas into practical applications. In Japan, Shinzaburo Koga and his team reported the first clinical use of intraoperative hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion for gastric cancer patients with peritoneal metastases, administering heated mitomycin C directly into the abdomen during surgery to enhance drug penetration and thermal cytotoxicity, with initial observations of reduced recurrence in small cohorts. Concurrently, in the United States, John S. Spratt developed a closed perfusion system for hyperthermic delivery, first validated in canine models where heated chemotherapeutic agents like thiotepa were circulated through the peritoneal cavity, achieving uniform temperature distribution (around 41–43°C) and demonstrating feasibility without systemic toxicity. Spratt's group then applied this technique clinically in 1980 to a patient with —an appendiceal malignancy—marking the inaugural human use of , where the procedure successfully managed recurrent disease in this case. Paul H. Sugarbaker's work in the 1990s at the National Institutes of Health solidified HIPEC's role in comprehensive treatment strategies. Building on prior perfusion techniques, Sugarbaker integrated HIPEC with extensive cytoreductive surgery (CRS), including peritonectomy procedures to strip tumor-involved peritoneal surfaces, for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis from gastrointestinal origins. His early phase I/II trials, involving small cohorts (typically 20–50 patients) with appendiceal tumors like pseudomyxoma peritonei, established the procedure's feasibility and safety, reporting median survival extensions to over 10 years in select low-burden cases when complete cytoreduction was achieved, thus pioneering the multimodal CRS-HIPEC paradigm.

Key advancements and techniques

In the 2000s, the Coliseum technique emerged as a significant advancement in open procedures, pioneered by Paul Sugarbaker to enhance drug distribution in complex cases involving extensive peritoneal involvement. This method involves suspending the abdominal wall with sutures or a self-retaining retractor to create an open "coliseum-like" space, allowing surgeons to manually manipulate the intestines and perfusate for more uniform heat and chemotherapy exposure across peritoneal surfaces. By facilitating direct visualization and agitation, the technique addresses limitations of earlier open methods, particularly in achieving homogeneous penetration in multifaceted anatomies such as those with adhesions or irregular tumor deposits. Parallel developments in closed perfusion techniques during the same period focused on refinements to improve uniformity and safety, with European centers introducing pressurized systems that leverage elevated intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) to optimize drug penetration and recirculation. These systems, often employing devices like the or similar closed-circuit pumps, generate controlled hypertension (typically 12-15 mmHg) to enhance convective transport of chemotherapeutic agents into tumor nodules while minimizing systemic absorption. Originating from innovations in institutions across and the , such as those refined for ovarian and colorectal applications, these pressurized approaches have demonstrated superior tissue perfusion compared to non-pressurized closed methods, reducing variability in temperature and drug delivery. Since 2016, laparoscopy-enhanced HIPEC (LE-HIPEC) has represented a shift toward minimally invasive strategies, particularly for prophylactic or low-burden disease, by combining laparoscopic access with closed perfusion to reduce postoperative morbidity. This technique uses trocars for intra-abdominal manipulation of viscera and adhesions during HIPEC delivery, avoiding a full laparotomy while ensuring adequate distribution; it has been applied in select cases of interval cytoreduction for and . Clinical data indicate shorter hospital stays (median 5-7 days versus 10-14 for open procedures) and lower rates of major complications (e.g., 15-20% versus 30-40%), making it suitable for patients with favorable peritoneal cancer index (PCI) scores below 10. Efforts toward standardization in the 2010s, led by the Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) through its global registry established in 2012, have facilitated the uniform application of HIPEC by promoting consistent use of the PCI and completeness of cytoreduction (CC) scoring systems. The , assessing lesion size and distribution across 13 abdominal regions (scored 0-3 per region, total 0-39), and CC score (0: no residual disease; 1: <2.5 mm; 2: 2.5-5 cm; 3: >5 cm) enable precise patient selection and outcome benchmarking across institutions. PSOGI's international guidelines, derived from registry data encompassing over 5,000 cases, emphasize <20 for optimal HIPEC candidacy and CC-0/1 achievement rates above 80% as predictors of long-term survival, fostering evidence-based protocols that have reduced procedural variability worldwide. In the 2020s, ongoing PSOGI initiatives and phase III trials have further advanced HIPEC, with updated meta-analyses as of 2025 confirming survival benefits in ovarian cancer when combined with cytoreductive surgery, particularly for interval debulking. The PSOGI registry has expanded to include over 10,000 cases, supporting refined patient selection and technique optimizations, including pressurized and laparoscopic variants, amid debates on prophylactic HIPEC for high-risk primaries.

Efficacy and Outcomes

Evidence from clinical trials

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been evaluated in several key randomized controlled trials across different peritoneal malignancies, providing mixed evidence on its efficacy when added to cytoreductive surgery (CRS). The OVHIPEC-1 trial, a multicenter phase 3 study published in 2018, randomized 245 patients with stage III epithelial ovarian cancer to interval CRS with or without HIPEC using cisplatin. It reported a significant progression-free survival benefit in the HIPEC arm (median 14.2 months versus 10.7 months; hazard ratio 0.66, 95% CI 0.50-0.87), with no increase in severe adverse events, supporting its role in this setting. In colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases, the PRODIGE 7 trial, a phase 3 open-label study from 2021 involving 265 patients, compared CRS alone to CRS plus 30 minutes of oxaliplatin-based HIPEC. The results showed no overall survival benefit (median 41.7 months versus 41.2 months; hazard ratio 0.95, 95% CI 0.68-1.33) and highlighted increased morbidity in the HIPEC group, leading to recommendations against routine use in this context. The HIPECT4 trial (2024), a phase 3 study in 184 patients with T4 colorectal cancer, found no progression-free or overall survival benefit with prophylactic HIPEC after resection (3-year PFS 77.7% vs 80.5%; HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.69-1.56). For gastric cancer peritoneal metastases, the GASTRIPEC-I trial, a phase 3 randomized study reported in 2023 with 149 patients, assessed CRS plus HIPEC (mitomycin-C) versus CRS alone after neoadjuvant chemotherapy. It found no overall survival difference (median 18.8 months versus 18.0 months; hazard ratio 0.75, 95% CI 0.48-1.19) but demonstrated significant improvements in progression-free survival (9.2 months versus 7.3 months; hazard ratio 0.64, 95% CI 0.44-0.93) and metastasis-free survival in the HIPEC arm, indicating potential benefits in disease control despite the mixed outcomes. Meta-analyses published between 2022 and 2025 have synthesized data from multiple studies. For appendiceal malignancies, a 2021 meta-analysis of for reported improved 5-year overall survival (57.8% vs 46.2%) with HIPEC, suggesting reduced recurrence risk in low-grade cases. Despite these findings, notable gaps persist in phase 3 evidence, especially for , where no large randomized controlled trials exist to definitively establish HIPEC's role; current data rely on smaller prospective series showing median survival of 30-50 months with CRS plus HIPEC, but without comparative randomization. Ongoing efforts include the (also known as GECOP-MMC), a phase 3 study launched in 2022 evaluating 60 minutes of as prophylaxis after complete resection in high-risk patients to prevent peritoneal recurrence, with results anticipated in 2026 or later as of November 2025. Observational data from large registries further underscore HIPEC's feasibility in real-world settings. The Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) registry, collecting data from the 2010s through the 2020s across over 50 centers worldwide, encompasses more than 5,000 patients treated with for various peritoneal malignancies, demonstrating high procedural success rates (complete cytoreduction in 70-80% of cases) and acceptable morbidity (major complications in 20-30%), which supports its broad applicability when performed by experienced teams.

Survival data by cancer type

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) outcomes vary significantly by primary cancer type, with survival metrics influenced by disease extent and cytoreduction completeness. In colorectal peritoneal metastases, patients achieving complete cytoreduction (CC-0) demonstrate median overall survival (OS) of 30 to 41 months, though benefits are limited in advanced cases with high peritoneal cancer index (PCI). The phase 3 reported no OS advantage for HIPEC added to cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in patients with extensive disease (PCI >10), with median OS of 41.2 months in the HIPEC arm versus 41.7 months without. For , HIPEC during interval CRS improves (PFS) by 12 to 18 months in primary advanced disease. The OVHIPEC-1 showed median PFS of 14.2 months with HIPEC versus 10.7 months without, alongside improved OS of 45.7 months versus 33.9 months at long-term follow-up. In recurrent settings, the OVHIPEC-2 (2024) reported improved OS with HIPEC (median 54.1 months vs 47.5 months; HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.56-0.96) after secondary CRS. 5-year OS approaches 50% when complete cytoreduction is feasible. Appendiceal malignancies, particularly low-grade , yield the most favorable HIPEC results, with 5-year OS rates of 60% to 80% following CRS and HIPEC. Curative intent is often achievable in these indolent tumors, with 10-year survival exceeding 50% in selected low-grade cases. In gastric cancer with peritoneal metastases, HIPEC is reserved for low-burden disease (PCI <10), where median OS ranges from 12 to 24 months post-CRS and HIPEC. Similarly, for malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, OS of 30 to 50 months is reported in patients with low PCI (<10) and complete cytoreduction, though long-term survival (beyond 3 years) is rare without it. Across cancer types, the completeness of cytoreduction (CC) score and serve as independent predictors of survival, with incomplete resection (CC >0) associated with hazard ratios () of 2 to 3 for OS compared to CC-0. High (>20) further worsens , emphasizing patient selection for optimal outcomes.

Complications and Risks

Perioperative complications

Perioperative complications following (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal (HIPEC) arise from the extensive abdominal dissection, , and high-dose chemotherapy exposure, leading to both general surgical and procedure-specific adverse events during the immediate postoperative period. These risks are influenced by factors such as peritoneal cancer index, operative duration, and institutional experience, with overall morbidity rates ranging from 30% to 70%. Common surgical risks include anastomotic leaks, occurring in 5–10% of cases, particularly after colorectal resections; postoperative bleeding due to extensive peritonectomy and vascular disruption; and infections such as or intra-abdominal abscesses, which may require drainage. is reported at 1–5%, often linked to , hemorrhage, or multiorgan failure in high-risk patients. HIPEC-specific complications encompass bowel perforations in 2–4% of patients, resulting from to the serosa or chemotherapy-induced fragility, and prolonged in 15–54% of cases attributable to hyperthermia's depressive effect on gastrointestinal motility. These events typically manifest within the first week postoperatively and can prolong hospital stays. Grade III–IV complications, per multi-institutional registries and reviews, affect 20–40% of patients and commonly involve gastrointestinal fistulas, pulmonary issues, or renal impairment; management often entails reoperation for leaks or perforations, broad-spectrum antibiotics for infections, and intensive care support. Anesthetic considerations emphasize thoracic epidural analgesia for multimodal pain control, facilitating early mobilization and reducing opioid requirements, alongside vigilant monitoring for —manifesting as prolonged or —through serial labs and to prevent hemorrhagic events.

Long-term side effects

Long-term side effects of hyperthermic intraperitoneal (HIPEC) primarily arise from the combined impact of chemotherapy agents and extensive , manifesting beyond the immediate postoperative period. Chemotherapy-related toxicities, particularly with cisplatin-based regimens, include occurring in 10–40% of patients, often progressing to due to tubular damage and reduced . Myelosuppression, such as and , affects up to 39–63% of cases but is typically transient, though prolonged bone marrow suppression can increase infection risk over months. , linked to cisplatin exposure, may persist as sensory disturbances in a subset of patients, contributing to chronic discomfort. Surgical sequelae from the extensive peritonectomy and visceral resections in HIPEC procedures frequently lead to intra-abdominal adhesions, resulting in small in approximately 20% of patients, often requiring reoperation for resolution. These adhesions can cause chronic and nutritional challenges. is a notable concern, particularly in women, due to ovarian toxicity from heated and adhesion-related tubal occlusion, with studies indicating impaired gonadal function post-treatment. Incisional hernias develop in about 7% of cases within two years, exacerbated by impairments and increased intra-abdominal pressure. Quality of life assessments using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire reveal an initial decline in global health status, physical functioning, and role functioning in the first 1–3 months post-HIPEC, attributed to , , and recovery demands, with scores dropping by 10–20 points from . However, most domains recover to preoperative levels by 3–4 months and improve further by 12 months, reflecting adaptation and resolution of acute symptoms. remains persistent in around 30% of patients at 3–12 months, impacting daily activities and emotional well-being. Post-HIPEC monitoring involves serial tests, including tumor markers like CEA or CA-125 every 3 months for the first 2 years and every 6 months thereafter, alongside such as abdominal scans at 6–12 month intervals for 3–5 years to detect late recurrence or secondary malignancies. This protocol enables early intervention for peritoneal disease progression or rare secondary peritoneal cancers, emphasizing multidisciplinary follow-up to manage delayed toxicities.

Controversy and Future Directions

Debates on efficacy

The efficacy of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been subject to significant debate due to limitations in the available evidence base. Clinical trials exhibit substantial heterogeneity in methodology, including variations in chemotherapeutic agents, exposure durations, and patient populations, which complicates direct comparisons and standardization. For instance, the PRODIGE 7 trial, which investigated oxaliplatin-based HIPEC in colorectal peritoneal metastases, has faced criticism for its protocol design, such as the short 30-minute exposure time potentially inducing resistance after neoadjuvant FOLFOX therapy and inadequate drug diffusion, leading to no observed overall survival benefit. Additionally, observational studies supporting HIPEC often suffer from selection bias and confounding factors, as healthier or more responsive patients are disproportionately included, inflating reported outcomes and hindering generalizability. Cancer-specific controversies further underscore these debates. In with peritoneal metastases, the negative results of the PRODIGE 7 trial, published in 2021, prompted many centers to discontinue routine HIPEC use, citing a lack of survival advantage alongside increased morbidity, though some guidelines conditionally recommend it in select cases. For , benefits appear confined to platinum-sensitive disease, with trials like OVHIPEC showing improved survival in primary advanced cases, but recent studies in recurrent platinum-sensitive settings, such as MITO-18, report no significant gains over surgery alone, limiting broader application. The cost-effectiveness of HIPEC also raises concerns, given its high procedural expenses—often exceeding $100,000 per case —juxtaposed against marginal or subgroup-specific survival gains that may not justify the economic burden in resource-limited settings. While some analyses deem it cost-effective for at certain willingness-to-pay thresholds, the overall value remains debated, particularly for cancers like colorectal where trial evidence is equivocal. Compounding this is the substantial morbidity burden, with major complications (grade III-IV) occurring in 30-50% of patients, including , fistulas, and prolonged hospitalizations, which often question the net clinical benefit and necessitate careful risk-benefit assessments.

Ongoing research and trials

Ongoing research into hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) focuses on refining patient selection, optimizing protocols, and integrating novel technologies to address limitations in efficacy for peritoneal metastases from various cancers. As of 2025, several phase III and IV trials are actively investigating HIPEC's role in specific settings, building on prior evidence to clarify its benefits in recurrence prevention and survival. For instance, the GECOP-MMC trial, a multicenter phase IV randomized study, is evaluating the addition of HIPEC with mitomycin-C after complete cytoreductive surgery in patients with colorectal cancer peritoneal metastases, with the primary endpoint of peritoneal recurrence-free survival at three years. Similarly, the CHIPOR trial, a phase III randomized study in platinum-sensitive recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer, has demonstrated an 8-month improvement in median overall survival with HIPEC added to interval cytoreductive surgery and systemic chemotherapy, influencing ongoing discussions on its application in recurrence management.00531-X/fulltext) Emerging approaches are exploring alternatives and enhancements to traditional HIPEC, such as early postoperative intraperitoneal (EPIC). The ICARuS trial, a phase II study, is assessing the combined effects of EPIC and HIPEC following in appendiceal neoplasms with peritoneal dissemination, focusing on and outcomes. Additionally, a phase I/III trial is investigating the combination of HIPEC and EPIC in colorectal peritoneal metastases to determine if sequential delivery improves compared to HIPEC alone. In parallel, nanoparticle-enhanced is under investigation to boost drug penetration and effects; recent studies have developed thermosensitive nanoparticles that release agents under hyperthermic conditions, showing improved peritoneal tumor uptake in preclinical models. Research efforts are increasingly emphasizing biomarker-driven patient selection to predict HIPEC responsiveness. Microsatellite instability (MSI) status has emerged as a key prognostic factor, with MSI-high tumors demonstrating superior disease-free and overall survival after and HIPEC in colorectal peritoneal metastases. (AI) tools are also being developed for peritoneal cancer index (PCI) prediction, aiding preoperative assessment; deep-learning models like DeAF have achieved high accuracy in forecasting cytoreductive completeness from , potentially reducing ineligible procedures. Global registries are facilitating standardization and data collection for HIPEC across cancer types. The Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International (PSOGI) is expanding its international registry to include more diverse cohorts, with ongoing analyses of long-term outcomes in gastric and colorectal cases, as highlighted in their 2025 congress proceedings. For gastric cancer, PSOGI's consensus guidelines on HIPEC regimens aim to standardize protocols, drawing from multinational data to address variability in peritoneal metastasis treatment.

References

  1. [1]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) - Mayo Clinic
    May 23, 2025 · HIPEC is a specialized cancer treatment used for cancers that have spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity, known as the peritoneum.
  2. [2]
    Cytoreduction (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ... - NCBI - NIH
    HIPEC is an intraperitoneal chemotherapy technique that should only be performed by qualified physicians who have received sufficient training in surgical ...Introduction · Technique or Treatment · Complications · Clinical Significance
  3. [3]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Rationale and technique
    Delivery of HIPEC requires an apparatus that heats and circulates the chemotherapeutic solution so that a stable temperature is maintained in the peritoneal ...
  4. [4]
    Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Critical Review - NIH
    Jun 22, 2021 · Intraperitoneal chemotherapy takes advantage of the large surface area of the peritoneum (approximately 2 m2) to enable mass transfer either ...
  5. [5]
    Pathophysiology and biology of peritoneal carcinomatosis - PMC
    Peritoneal carcinomatosis represents a devastating form of cancer progression with a very poor prognosis. The genesis of this clinical entity can be explained ...
  6. [6]
    Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) Methodology ...
    The rationale of HIPEC is to eliminate the peritoneal surface of any residual microscopic disease. Moderate hyperthermia above 41 °C has a direct anti-tumour ...Missing: definition | Show results with:definition
  7. [7]
    Rare histologies in peritoneal carcinomatosis: a narrative review
    This review aims to identify cancers uncommonly treated for PC that may benefit from additional surgical or regional interventions.
  8. [8]
    Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: A Critical Review - MDPI
    The results of recent clinical trials in large bowel cancer have put into question the use of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).
  9. [9]
    Cisplatin- or Paclitaxel-Based HIPEC for Advanced Ovarian Cancer
    Jun 26, 2025 · The use of HIPEC in ovarian carcinomatosis has been supported by the publication of phase 3 clinical trials showing survival benefits with its ...Missing: post- | Show results with:post-
  10. [10]
    Current Evidence for the Use of HIPEC and Cytoreductive Surgery in ...
    Oct 14, 2023 · This manuscript provides a comprehensive review of the current evidence supporting the use of HIPEC and cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in patients suffering from ...
  11. [11]
    Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC for Malignant Peritoneal ...
    Conclusion: CRS/HIPEC remains the gold standard for treating patients with MPM with excellent patient OS. Lymph node status, PCI and CC score were independent ...
  12. [12]
    Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ... - NIH
    We have reported a case of MIBC recurring with peritoneal carcinomatosis that was treated with CRS + HIPEC. The patient did not present significant risk factors ...
  13. [13]
    Efficacy and Safety of Intraoperative Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    Apr 26, 2023 · Prevention of peritoneal metastases from colon cancer in high-risk patients: preliminary results of surgery plus prophylactic HIPEC.
  14. [14]
    Patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases and high peritoneal ...
    Peritoneal cancer index (PCI) >20 is often seen as a contraindication for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in ...
  15. [15]
    Selection Criteria for Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic ... - NIH
    May 3, 2022 · The aim of the study was to assess diagnostic tools implemented in selecting candidates for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal ...
  16. [16]
    Patient selection for cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for the ... - NIH
    CRS and HIPEC is a viable option for selected patients with PM from colorectal origin, resulting in long-term survival and even cure in some patients.
  17. [17]
    Current clinical practices of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and ...
    Beneficial factors are good performance status (ECOG 0 or 1), disease distribution amenable for complete or near-complete (CCR0 or CCR1) cytoreduction, age ...
  18. [18]
    The role of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in ...
    Evidence supports the efficacy of HIPEC in interval debulking and selected cases of recurrent ovarian cancer. Optimal patient selection and complete ...Missing: post- | Show results with:post-
  19. [19]
    [PDF] BC Cancer Protocol Summary for Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    Jan 1, 2016 · ABSOLUTE CONTRAINDICATIONS: • ECOG > 2. • Unresectable disease on preoperative imaging. • Extra-abdominal metastases. • Multifocal malignant ...
  20. [20]
    Cytoreductive Surgery With Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal...
    PSM-OUH considers the following criteria as relative contraindications for CRS-HIPEC: age above 75 years, significant comorbidity, poor performance status, ...
  21. [21]
    Cytoreductive Procedures and HIPEC in the Treatment of Advanced ...
    The contraindications can be classified in absolute and relative. Absolute contraindications are: inoperable invasion of the liver hilum;. diffuse, inoperable ...
  22. [22]
    Cytoreduction and Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC ...
    Mar 23, 2017 · Ethical Considerations. Key Concept: We must do our best to inform our patients and to enhance their comprehension about their disease and ...
  23. [23]
    Therapeutic options for peritoneal metastasis arising from colorectal ...
    The addition of further therapeutic options such as neoadjuvant intraperitoneal chemotherapy or pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy, should be ...
  24. [24]
    Optimizing Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Treatment Strategies
    Jun 20, 2025 · However, a new minimally invasive approach, pressurized intraperitoneal aerosolized chemotherapy (PIPAC), is emerging as a promising alternative ...
  25. [25]
    Cytoreductive Surgery and Peritonectomy Procedures - PMC - NIH
    Completeness of Cytoreduction Score (CC score). In order to describe more precisely the type of cytoreduction performed, Sugarbaker reported the CC score [38].
  26. [26]
    Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    The mean peritoneal cancer index was 20. One hundred eighty-seven patients (46%) had complete or near-complete cytoreduction. Three hundred seventy-two patients ...
  27. [27]
    Morbidity and Mortality of Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic ...
    In all patients, the diagnosis of PC was confirmed by frozen section pathological examination; peritoneal lavage for cytology was performed using 400 mL sterile ...
  28. [28]
    How do we perform hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in ...
    Mar 8, 2021 · Comparisons between open- and closed-abdomen technique. Both open and closed abdomen HIPEC method have their own strengths and weaknesses.
  29. [29]
    Laparoscopic HIPEC for low-volume peritoneal metastasis in gastric ...
    HIPEC provides multiple theoretical benefits over systemic chemotherapy for peritoneal metastasis. HIPEC delivers greater concentrations of chemotherapeutic ...
  30. [30]
    indications, aims, and results: a systematic review of the literature
    Laparoscopic HIPEC appears to be a safe and effective procedure when performed to treat malignant ascites refractory to less aggressive treatments.
  31. [31]
    The impact of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and ...
    Hyperthermia increases the permeability of chemotherapy drugs through the peritoneum and increases the sensitivity of malignant cells to cytostatic drugs due to ...
  32. [32]
    Effects of Hyperthermia and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    Aug 29, 2023 · Hyperthermia enhances tumor perfusion and increases drug penetration after IP delivery. The peritoneum is increasingly recognized as an immune- ...
  33. [33]
    Pharmacokinetics of cisplatin in the systemic versus hyperthermic ...
    Dec 26, 2024 · Absolute bioavailability of cisplatin in the thoracic (HITHOC group) and abdominal (HIPEC group) cavities was 20 and 10 times higher than that ...
  34. [34]
    Optimal hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy regimen ... - NIH
    Nov 12, 2024 · Under high temperatures, the penetration depth of chemotherapeutic drugs can increase from approximately 1 mm to 5 mm, significantly augmenting ...
  35. [35]
    Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) - NIH
    Sep 3, 2022 · In this review, we discuss the molecular and cellular mechanisms of HIPEC actions and the effects on EOCs, including the progression-free survival (PFS), ...Missing: rationale | Show results with:rationale
  36. [36]
    Surgical technology and pharmacology of hyperthermic ... - NIH
    The techniques vary from a totally open technique with a vapor barrier over the open abdominal space to a totally closed technique whereby the HIPEC is ...Missing: setup | Show results with:setup
  37. [37]
    Wide variation in tissue, systemic, and drain fluid exposure after ...
    Jun 27, 2020 · Postprocedural flushing after HIPEC does not seem to reduce the risk for personnel exposure. On average, no difference was found between total ...
  38. [38]
    Chemotherapy for intraperitoneal use: a review of hyperthermic ...
    The role of intraperitoneal chemotherapy is to maximize tumor penetration and optimize cell death while minimizing systemic toxicity. Hyperthermic ...
  39. [39]
    The Temperature-Dependent Effectiveness of Platinum-Based ...
    Common HIPEC regimes are 30 min with oxaliplatin at 42–43 °C or MMC at 41 °C for 90 min. The biological rationale for particular chemotherapeutic drugs, ...
  40. [40]
    Designing HIPEC regimens for colon cancer - ScienceDirect.com
    The HIPEC protocol was Mitomycin C (MMC) given at a dose of 35 mg/m2 divided in 3 doses during 90 min at an average temperature of 41–42°.
  41. [41]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with cisplatin and ... - NIH
    The aim of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of CRS+HIPEC with cisplatin and paclitaxel for the treatment of advanced EOC.
  42. [42]
    Intraperitoneal Perfusion with Cisplatin or Mitomycin C Improves ...
    Aug 11, 2025 · Hyperthermia is thought to enhance the uptake and cytotoxic effect of drugs, inhibit DNA repair, and activate the immune system, but its ...
  43. [43]
    Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy in Ovarian Cancer
    Jan 17, 2018 · Perfusion with cisplatin at a dose of 100 mg per square meter and at a flow rate of 1 liter per minute was then initiated (with 50% of the dose ...
  44. [44]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with oxaliplatin for ...
    Sep 25, 2018 · The oxaliplatin dose used for HIPEC is 3.5–5.4 times the intravenous dose of a one-off infusion delivered to patients with metastatic ...Missing: instability | Show results with:instability
  45. [45]
    Efficacy of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy and ...
    Baratti et al examined the effectiveness of CRS/HIPEC with cisplatin plus doxorubicin or mitomycin-C in peritoneal sarcomatosis, including 11 patients with ...
  46. [46]
    Phase I study of intraperitoneal irinotecan with systemic ...
    Administration of 3-weekly CBIP irinotecan concomitant to systemic CAPOX was well tolerated at 75 mg in patients with gastric cancer and peritoneal metastases.
  47. [47]
    a review of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy and early ...
    Outcomes with HIPEC for colorectal cancer are very promising, although there is only one phase III study in the current literature, and it is therefore not yet ...Missing: evidence | Show results with:evidence
  48. [48]
    Body surface area-based versus concentration-based ... - NIH
    The current IP chemotherapy dosing regimens can be divided into body surface area (BSA)-based and concentration-based protocols.Missing: adjustments | Show results with:adjustments
  49. [49]
    Overview of the optimal perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy ...
    1. Add oxaliplatin to 2 L/m2 5 % dextrose solution · 2. Dose of oxaliplatin is 460 mg/m · 3. 30-min HIPEC treatment. Intravenous component · 4. Add 5-fluorouracil ...
  50. [50]
    A Clinician's perspective on the role of hyperthermic intraperitoneal ...
    Among other drugs frequently employed in HIPEC are paclitaxel and liposomal doxorubicin, either individually or in different combinations [34]. The optimal drug ...
  51. [51]
    Systematic Review of Variations in Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    This procedure called HIPEC is intended to destroy any remaining tumor cells after tumor removal. The underlying rationale is based on three theoretical ...
  52. [52]
    Body Surface Area Predicts Plasma Oxaliplatin and ... - NIH
    Higher BSA is correlated with lower plasma drug levels and greater pharmacokinetic advantage in HIPEC, likely because of increased circulating blood volume.Missing: adjustments | Show results with:adjustments
  53. [53]
    [PDF] A guide to establishing a hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy ...
    Jul 2, 2020 · For treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) specifically, HIPEC has been evaluated for use at the time of CRS in patients with both primary.
  54. [54]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with oxaliplatin for ...
    Sep 18, 2018 · Only a small percentage. (10–15%) of the parent drug oxaliplatin is consistently de- tectable during 30-min HIPEC with 300 mg m 2 oxaliplatin.Missing: adjustments | Show results with:adjustments
  55. [55]
    Then and now: cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic ... - NIH
    This multicentric prospective trial provided extensive information on the natural history of peritoneal carcinomatosis as well effective pre-operative ...
  56. [56]
    Hyperthermia in tissue-cultured cells of malignant origin - PubMed
    Hyperthermia in tissue-cultured cells of malignant origin. Cancer Res. 1957 Sep;17(8):785-91. Authors. O S SELAWRY, M N GOLDSTEIN, T McCORMICK. PMID: 13460984.Missing: O. studies 1950s
  57. [57]
    Progress in gastric cancer surgery in Japan and its limits of radicality
    Progress in gastric cancer surgery in Japan and its limits of radicality. ... T Kinoshita. PMID: 3630186; DOI: 10.1007/BF01655804. No abstract available ...
  58. [58]
    Hyperthermic peritoneal perfusion system in canines - PubMed
    The thermal infusion filtration system was designed to manage malignant effusions and treat metastatic cancers of the intracavitary serosa.Missing: Selawry 1950s
  59. [59]
    Clinical delivery system for intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy
    Clinical delivery system for intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy. Cancer Res. 1980 Feb;40(2):256-60. Authors. J S Spratt, R A Adcock, M Muskovin, W ...Missing: 1950s | Show results with:1950s
  60. [60]
    Early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy as an adjuvant ...
    To treat peritoneal carcinomatosis, a uniformly lethal disease process, extensive cytoreductive surgery and i.p. chemotherapy were combined.Missing: Paul HIPEC development
  61. [61]
    Surgical technology and pharmacology of hyperthermic ...
    Multiple technologies for HIPEC exist and these have advantages and disadvantages. The techniques vary from a totally open technique with a vapor barrier over ...
  62. [62]
    High intra-abdominal pressure during hyperthermic intraperitoneal ...
    There is evidence that HIPEC using high intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) results in increased tissue penetration, although its safety profile remains relatively ...Missing: perfusion refinements systems Europe Stoppa- Pertsemlidis<|separator|>
  63. [63]
    Closed hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy with CO2 ...
    The PRS Closed HIPEC creates a turbulent flow with CO2 recirculation that allows an optimal diffusion and penetration of the cytotoxic drug. The PRS Closed ...Missing: pressurized refinements
  64. [64]
    Postoperative complications and critical care management after ...
    HIPEC can be performed either with closed or open abdominal techniques. The advantages of a closed abdominal HIPEC are increased intraabdominal pressure ...Missing: setup | Show results with:setup<|control11|><|separator|>
  65. [65]
  66. [66]
    Laparoscopic HIPEC: A bridge between open and closed-techniques
    We present an original technique in which a laparoscopic approach to the closed abdomen is adopted for stirring the abdominal contents.
  67. [67]
    Laparoscopic cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic ...
    This study aims to present the results from the PSOGI L-CRS + HIPEC registry, providing an overview of worldwide trends and results from the minimally invasive ...Missing: enhanced | Show results with:enhanced
  68. [68]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in colorectal cancer
    May 9, 2024 · Oxaliplatin + irinotecan-HIPEC resulted in the most improved OS (61 months (95% c.i. 51 to 101 months)). Ninety-day mortality in both crude and ...Results · Long-Term Survival Outcomes · Author Contributions
  69. [69]
    (PDF) The Current Practice of Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC for ...
    Oct 23, 2025 · Conclusion: This international survey demonstrates that CRS and HIPEC is now performed on a large scale for CRC-PM patients. Variation in ...
  70. [70]
    The Phase III GASTRIPEC-I Trial - PubMed
    Jan 10, 2024 · This study showed no OS difference between CRS + H and CRS-A. PFS and MFS were significantly better in the CRS + H group, ...Missing: ICYRENEC | Show results with:ICYRENEC
  71. [71]
    Effect of HIPEC on Peritoneal Recurrence in Peritoneal Metastasis ...
    Dec 2, 2021 · The studies on gastric and ovarian cancer indicated a level of effectiveness of HIPEC in improving both recurrence rates and overall survivals; ...
  72. [72]
    Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Systematic Review of Hyperthermic ...
    Mar 4, 2023 · HIPEC is a multiparametric treatment with multiple protocols proposed and reviewed in this work. A systematic review of medical literature was ...
  73. [73]
    Great Debate: Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for ...
    Jul 1, 2025 · The GEOCOP trial will investigate efficacy of 60 min of mitomycin HIPEC by recording relapse-free survival in patients who receive best ...
  74. [74]
    Long term oncologic outcomes from the international PSOGI registry
    ... HIPEC were invited through PSOGI to submit data on their cases. ... The results showed that both L-CRS + HIPEC and L-RR-HIPEC are safe and feasible in carefully ...Missing: observational | Show results with:observational
  75. [75]
    a multicentre, randomised, open-label, phase 3 trial - PubMed
    Jan 18, 2021 · Our data suggest that cytoreductive surgery alone should be the cornerstone of therapeutic strategies with curative intent for colorectal peritoneal metastases.
  76. [76]
    final survival analysis of a randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial
    Sep 11, 2023 · These updated survival results confirm the long-term survival benefit of HIPEC in patients with primary stage III epithelial ovarian cancer undergoing interval ...Missing: 2018 | Show results with:2018
  77. [77]
    Factors influencing long‐term survival after cytoreductive surgery ...
    The management of PMP recurrences is shown in Fig. 2. After the first CRS–HIPEC procedure, 105 patients (46·7 per cent) remained disease‐free after a median of ...
  78. [78]
    Effect of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy on ...
    Oct 31, 2023 · The GASTRIPEC-I trial analyzed the additional benefit on hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) in ...
  79. [79]
    Long-Term Survival in Patients Treated with Cytoreduction and ... - NIH
    Feb 8, 2023 · The OS suggests efficacy for CRS-HIPEC for MPM. Long-term survival improves significantly after patients achieve the 1-year, postoperative mark.
  80. [80]
    Survival Outcomes Post-secondary Cytoreduction in Peritoneal ...
    The CC score was a strong predictor of overall survival in the PCI ≥20 group, with a median survival of 18.13 months in the CC0 subgroup compared to 12.93 ...
  81. [81]
    Complications of Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC in the Treatment ...
    Small bowel perforations and anastomotic leaks are the most common and clinically significant GI complications after CRS and HIPEC. A possible explanation for ...
  82. [82]
    Anastomotic leakage after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with ...
    The overall AL rate of CRS-HIPEC is comparable to colorectal surgery, and there is no cumulative risk of multiple anastomoses - especially in the case of small ...
  83. [83]
    Anastomotic leakage after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with ...
    Currently, the leakage rate varies between 4 and 6% for colonic surgery, and 10–15% for rectal surgery [20,21]. Studies focusing on AL in patients undergoing ...
  84. [84]
    Morbidity and Mortality Rates Following Cytoreductive Surgery ...
    Jan 11, 2019 · Overall 30-day mortality was lower in CRS/HIPEC (1.1%) compared with pancreaticoduodenectomy (2.5%), right lobe hepatectomy (2.9%), esophagectomy (3.0%), and ...
  85. [85]
    Postoperative paralytic ileus after cytoreductive surgery combined ...
    POI is associated with significant increase in both morbidity and mortality. CRS and HIPEC commonly result in prolonged POI (PPOI). The objective was to clarify ...
  86. [86]
    Challenges following CRS and HIPEC surgery in cancer patients ...
    Risk factors for fascial dehiscence and wound complications include Doxorubicin-based HIPEC, open surgical technique, higher BMI, and component separation ...
  87. [87]
    Morbidity and mortality of cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic ...
    ... HIPEC: a systematic review ... Peritoneal carcinomatosis: patients selection, perioperative complications and quality of life related to cytoreductive surgery and ...
  88. [88]
    Anesthetic implications in hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy
    Intraoperative Concerns​​ So, the coagulation abnormalities should be assessed and documented to be normal before the insertion and removal of epidural catheter ...
  89. [89]
  90. [90]
    Perioperative approach to nephrotoxicity in cytoreductive surgery ...
    Oct 27, 2025 · Nephrotoxicity is reported in 10%-40% of patients treated with HIPEC and is associated with increased morbidity and healthcare costs[4,5]. The ...
  91. [91]
    Side-effects of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in ...
    Apr 28, 2023 · A meta-analysis suggested that HIPEC is associated with a high risk of respiratory failure and renal dysfunction (Desiderio et al., 2017). In ...
  92. [92]
  93. [93]
    [PDF] Natural History and Management of Small-Bowel Obstruction in ...
    We have demonstrated that, with long-term follow up, rates of SBO following CRS/HIPEC surgery are as high as. 20%. Most of these cases were benign or adhesive ...
  94. [94]
    Childbearing after hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy - NIH
    The effects of HIPEC in terms of fertility (due to postoperative adhesions or ovarian toxicity) are unknown, but it makes sense to think they are adverse. Very ...
  95. [95]
    Incidence of incisional hernia in patients undergoing cytoreductive ...
    May 17, 2024 · Within two years of CRS/HIPEC, 25 (6.9%) patients developed IH leading to an annual incidence of 3.5%. The median time to occurrence of IH after ...Missing: infertility | Show results with:infertility
  96. [96]
    Quality of life and symptom distress after cytoreductive surgery ... - NIH
    Although CRS/HIPEC can prolong survival, it can also cause adverse effects such as postoperative ileus, wound infection, intra-abdominal abscess, bleeding, ...
  97. [97]
    Long-Term Outcomes after Surgery for Appendiceal Mucinous ... - NIH
    Clinical follow-up with abdominal CT and tumour markers was done every 3 months for the first 2 years and every 6 months thereafter. Tumour recurrence was ...
  98. [98]
    Patterns and Timing of Recurrence following CRS and HIPEC in ...
    The NCCN and European Society of Medical Oncology guidelines recommend 6–12 monthly surveillance with CT for 3–5 years post treatment [6]. This large single- ...
  99. [99]
    Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for colorectal ...
    Using the results obtained from the PRODIGE 7 randomized controlled trial, methodological issues were discussed and possible improvements to the hyperthermic ...
  100. [100]
    Evaluating the Impact of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal ...
    Mar 6, 2025 · This narrative review evaluated the effectiveness of HIPEC combined with surgery and investigated its potential to improve survival, reduce recurrence, and ...
  101. [101]
    HIPEC Does Not Add Benefit to Cytoreduction Surgery in CRC ...
    Mar 31, 2025 · We, at City of Hope, stopped offering HIPEC altogether in 2021 after the results for PRODIGE-7 were published. We were able to look at patients ...<|separator|>
  102. [102]
    2022 Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International Consensus ...
    Nov 8, 2023 · Based on the available evidence, despite the negative results of PRODIGE 7, HIPEC could be conditionally recommended to patients with PM-CRC after CRS.<|control11|><|separator|>
  103. [103]
    [PDF] Expert commentary on HORSE/MITO18 and CHIPOR
    Mar 19, 2025 · The MITO-18 study concluded that the addition of HIPEC to SCS did not show a significant improvement in PFS for patients with platinum-sensitive ...
  104. [104]
    Affordable HIPEC: Advanced Cancer Treatment for Less - Bookimed
    Nov 29, 2024 · How much does HIPEC treatment cost? HIPEC procedures typically range from $135,000 to $150,000 in the United States, influenced by higher labor ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  105. [105]
    Cost-effectiveness of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy ...
    From the Korea perspectives, HIPEC is cost-effective using a WTP threshold of USD 30,496, with a USD 708.3 per QALY.
  106. [106]
    Repeated cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic ...
    Feb 24, 2016 · Completeness of cytoreduction score of 0 (CC-0) was achieved in all first procedures and in 67 % of second procedures (CC-0; n = 4 and CC-1; n ...
  107. [107]
    GECOP-MMC: phase IV randomized clinical trial to evaluate the ...
    May 12, 2022 · GECOP-MMC is a prospective, open-label, randomized, multicenter phase IV clinical trial that aims to evaluate the effectiveness of HIPEC with high-dose ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  108. [108]
  109. [109]
    Efficacy of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in colorectal ...
    Mar 4, 2024 · This phase I/III trial aims to identify a more effective treatment of colorectal peritoneal metastases by combination of HIPEC and EPIC.
  110. [110]
    Development of a prediction model for hyperthermia-enhanced drug ...
    This study investigates the synergistic effect of hyperthermia and chemotherapy by utilizing thermosensitive nanoparticles (NPs) to enhance drug uptake by ...
  111. [111]
  112. [112]
    A deep-learning model to predict the completeness of cytoreductive ...
    We have developed a novel AI framework of decoupling feature alignment and fusion (DeAF) by deep learning to aid selection of PM patients and predict surgical ...
  113. [113]
    psogi.com
    PSOGI. The Peritoneal Surface Oncology Group International. WHAT'S NEW. Upcoming Event → PSOGI Barcelona | 29 to 31 October 2025 | Visit psogicongress2025.com ...Upcoming Events · About Us · Newsletter · ContactMissing: PERI- GAS nanoparticle
  114. [114]
    Programme PSOGI2025 – PSOGI Congress 2025 – Barcelona
    Harpsicle: a prospective observational study on HIPEC regimens in colorectal peritoneal metastases · Preoperative chemotherapy cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and ...Missing: GAS EPIC nanoparticle