Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy treatment at Manipal Hospitals

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a specialised treatment for select abdominal cancers, specifically those affecting the peritoneal cavity. The procedure of HIPEC in Rangapani, Siliguri, is a two-step operation that includes Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) to remove all visible tumour tissue. This is followed by Heated Chemotherapy infusion to destroy microscopic cancer cells.

The heat from the Chemotherapy agents increases the absorption and efficacy of drugs while reducing systemic side effects. At Manipal Hospitals, HIPEC is delivered by experienced surgical oncologists using precision techniques.

Why is Heated Chemotherapy Surgery Performed?

It is mainly used to treat:

• Appendix cancer and colorectal peritoneal carcinomatosis.

• Ovarian cancer and primary peritoneal cancer.

• Peritoneal mesothelioma and pseudomyxoma peritonei.

• Gastric cancer with peritoneal spread.

Heated Chemotherapy Surgery in Rangapani, Siliguri, is used when patients have advanced abdominal cancers located in the peritoneal cavity. The oncology team completes a comprehensive preoperative assessment of the patient to determine candidacy and possible outcomes. In select patients with metastatic abdominal cancers, it improves survival and quality of life.

What to Expect Before the Procedure.

Surgical Oncologists, Anaesthesiologists, and Physiotherapists work as a team to prepare the patients for the HIPEC procedure. Prehabilitation programmes are tailored to the individual characteristics of each patient to enhance surgical outcomes and improve recovery.

Before HIPEC, patients undergo:

• Imaging scan (CT, MRI, PET) for assessment of the tumour.

• Blood tests and organ function evaluation.

• Cardiac and pulmonary clearance for anaesthesia safety.

Additional preparation includes:

• Smoking cessation and alcohol restriction.

• Nutritional optimisation and lung exercises.

• Psychological support and counselling.

What to Expect During the Procedure.

HIPEC in Rangapani, Siliguri, takes place in a modular operating theatre with temperature-controlled perfusion systems. Intraoperative monitoring ensures the maintenance of drug delivery and safety.

The procedure takes approximately 8–10 hours and consists of two phases:

1. Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS): It is a procedure involving the complete surgical removal of all visible tumours from the peritoneal cavity.

2. HIPEC Infusion:

• A heated  Chemotherapy solution (41–43°C) is circulated within the abdomen for 60–120 minutes.

• The time depends on the drug used (mitomycin C, cisplatin, or oxaliplatin)

• The abdomen is gently agitated to ensure that  Chemotherapy is administered uniformly.

The surgical team uses cooling blankets to maintain core body temperature during the procedure.

What to Expect After the Procedure.

Postoperative care includes:

• ICU monitoring for 24–48 hours.

• Fluid and electrolyte management.

• Pain control & infection prevention.

Patients stay in the hospital for 7–14 days after the surgery. To assess responses, follow-up imaging and blood tests are also done.

The team of Oncologists, Dietitians/Nutritionists, Psychologists and Rehabilitation Experts assist with both physical and emotional recovery. Follow-up over the long term is essential for early detection of recurrence and monitoring late effects.

Benefits and Risks.

Benefits of HIPEC in Rangapani, Siliguri:

• High local drug concentration.

• Minimal systemic toxicity.

• Effective against residual microscopic disease.

• Improved survival in selected peritoneal malignancies.

• Can be combined with systemic Chemotherapy.

However, potential risks may include:

• Surgical complications (bleeding, infection, bowel injury)

• Chemotherapy-related side effects (nausea, fatigue, bone marrow suppression)

• Organ-specific risks (kidney dysfunction, intestinal leak, pancreatitis)

• Psychological Impact (fatigue, sleep disturbances, depression)

At Manipal Hospitals Rangapani, Siliguri, the risks are mitigated by careful patient selection, intraoperative monitoring, and postoperative care. The hospital regularly revises its procedures in light of new research. This ensures the treatment is effective while supporting a smooth recovery.