Heated Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC)
Heated intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC) is a form of chemotherapy performed in conjunction with surgery to remove abdominal tumors. Look to UC San Diego Health's surgical oncology team for your HIPEC treatment.
HIPEC Expertise
Better Outcomes at UC San Diego Health
UC San Diego Health's surgical oncology team is internationally recognized for its expertise in HIPEC. We perform more HIPEC procedures than any medical center in the western United States with success rates that exceed international averages.
Video: How Heated Chemotherapy Treatment Works
Dr. Joel Baumgartner, a surgical oncologist at UC San Diego Health's Moores Cancer Center, describes how HIPEC, or heated intraperitoneal chemoperfusion, is done after all the visible tumor cells are removed from the abdomen. A dose of the heated chemotherapy drug is applied to kill the remaining microscopic cancer cells and lower the risk of the tumors returning.
Understanding HIPEC
HIPEC is a form of chemotherapy performed at the end of surgery to remove abdominal tumors. Once all visible tumors are removed in a process called "cytoreduction," your surgeon circulates a heated, sterile chemotherapy solution throughout the abdominal cavity to kill any remaining cancer cells. The approach allows you to receive a higher dose of chemotherapy with fewer side effects.
Cancers Treated with HIPEC
HIPEC is an effective treatment for cancers in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneal cancer), including pseudomyxoma peritonei, mucinous adenocarcinoma of the appendix and peritoneal mesothelioma. Peritoneal metastases from colon cancer and advanced ovarian cancer may also be treated with HIPEC.
Are You a Candidate for HIPEC?
It is important you discuss HIPEC therapy with your care team to determine if it's right for you. You can help your physician with treatment planning by gathering as much information as possible about your health history. Here are some examples of records that are helpful.
Imaging studies (CT, PET, MRI) of abdomen, pelvis and chest
Pathology report
Tumor markers: CEA, CA 19-9, CA 125
Surgeon's notes for any prior surgery for your cancer
Summary of all chemotherapy treatments
HIPEC Surgeons
Patient & Family Support Services
At UC San Diego Health, your care goes beyond treating disease. It also includes supporting you and your loved ones emotionally throughout your cancer journey. Most of our support services are free.
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