Haemodynamic changes during hyperthermic intra-thoracic chemotherapy for pseudomyxoma peritonei

Hyperthermic intra-thoracic chemotherapy (HITOC) combined with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) is a novel approach in the management of pseuodmyxoma peritonei with thoracic extension. The haemodynamic effects of hyperthermic chemotherapy present an anaesthetic challenge. Here, we describe the haemodynamic changes seen during HITOC.

A retrospective case note review of adult patients undergoing CRS with HITOC from 2009 to 2016. Intra-operative haemodynamics were measured using the LIDCOrapid^TM brand of invasive cardiac output (CO) monitor. Intravenous fluids, vasopressor requirements and urine output (UO) were recorded.

Four patients were included in the study. Mean heart rate (HR) peaked at 20 min following commencement of HITOC. The difference between HR at time 0 and at peak was minimal. There was minimal change in CO, and stroke volume variation (SVV) remained stable. Vasopressor dose was minimally changed throughout surgery. Average UO during HITOC was 142.5 ± 109.6 mls at 60 min. Mean fluid requirements during HITOC was 586.2 ± 441.2 mls. No significant change occurred in pH or base excess (BE).

Significant haemodynamic instability including cardiac asystole has been reported during HITOC. The application of hyperthermic agents to the thorax results in vasodilatation, cardiac warming and compression of mediastinal vessels. Measurement of haemodynamic variables allowed careful titration of intravenous fluid therapy to CO and stroke volume, allowing for haemodynamic stability. This has not been described elsewhere.