Phase 1 trial of same day cytology to guide the use of HIPEC

Peritoneal metastases from gastrointestinal or gynecologic malignancy are a prominent part of the natural history of these diseases. Peritoneal metastases, if not effectively treated, will result in a decreased survival and cause an impaired quality of life. Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a treatment specifically designed to combat peritoneal metastases. A group of patients who, from a theoretical perspective, may benefit from HIPEC are those patients with a positive peritoneal cytology. In order to identify these patients at the time of a surgical intervention, a same day cytology is to be performed.

The result of this test is to be available at or before the completion of the cancer resection. If the cytology is positive, the patient immediately becomes a candidate for HIPEC. The HIPEC will be of maximal value if a complete cytoreduction, as judged by the surgeon, has been possible. This phase 1 trial is to demonstrate that the Surgical Oncology Service, the Department of Pathology, the Pharmacy and the Operating Room personnel can co-ordinate a phase 1 protocol to successfully complete the same day cytology with an efficient delivery of HIPEC. A standardized plan for consent, cytology collection, preparation of the specimen, reading of the specimen, reporting the results in a timely manner facilitates the administration of HIPEC in peritoneal cytology positive patients.

Successful completion of these requirements is a positive result for this study and allows for future protocols to be generated. Successful completion of the same day cytology phase 1 protocol will allow the efficacy, safety, and efficiency of this plan of patient management to be evaluated.