Intraoperative modality of treatment for peritoneal carcinomatosis: use of hyperthermic interperitoneal...

The use of hyperthermia as an adjunct to chemotherapy in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis is a promising technique for patients who otherwise have a poor prognosis for survival. We, herein, report an overview and description of our technique for the safe conduct of this treatment. Included in these data are a total of 71 patients who underwent an intraoperative treatment with Mitomycin C at temperatures of 41-42 degrees C for a 90- to 120-min time period. The treatment protocol, perfusion system description, technical considerations, and potential complications are also included. The prognosis for intraabdominal carcinomatosis is poor with conventional treatments and modalities. We believe that the use of this technique offers a very positive clinical alternative for patients undergoing treatment for laparoscopic palliation of malignant ascites and/or surgical debulking for intraoperative treatment and prevention of metastasis.