Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) at Mercy

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a heated chemotherapy solution that is used in conjunction with cytoreductive surgery. Cytoreductive surgery is performed first to remove visible tumors from the abdominal area. 

Following the surgery, heated chemotherapy solution is added to the abdominal cavity to destroy non-visible or microscopic tumor cells that may remain after surgery. Heat helps kill the cancer cells and also enhances the effect of chemotherapy. 

Following the cytoreductive surgery, several tubes are inserted in the abdominal cavity. The abdominal cavity is then flooded with the heated chemotherapy solution and the solution is pumped throughout for approximately 90 minutes. This method allows the heated chemotherapy to reach all surfaces of the abdominal cavity and treat the microscopic cancer cells that could potentially form new cancerous tumors. 

Used in conjunction with cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC can improve survival and quality of life for patients who would have limited hope for a solution to their advanced cancer.

Mercy’s cancer surgeons and their clinical team are recognized nationally as leaders in aggressive cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC. Due to the complexity of the combined therapies, surgeons must be appropriately trained and experienced to offer these treatment methods.

The Surgical Oncology team at Mercy in Baltimore performs these procedures on a frequent basis and offers a high level of expertise to patients facing a diagnosis of peritoneal cancer.