Peritoneal cancers & HIPEC

What are CRS and HIPEC?

The peritoneum is the lining of the abdomen. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) aims to remove visible tumour deposits. HIPEC is heated chemotherapy delivered into the abdominal cavity during an operation.

Selection is essential

CRS and HIPEC are considered only in selected clinical settings. Their role depends on the origin and extent of the cancer, prior treatment and the person’s fitness for a major operation. They are not a routine recommendation for every cancer that involves the peritoneum.

Questions before a decision

• What evidence supports this approach for my particular cancer?
• What are the alternatives and expected aims of treatment?
• What complications and recovery needs should be considered?
• Where would treatment take place, and what support is available?

Discuss current procedure availability and the appropriate treatment centre directly with the treating team.

Preparing for review

Bring the full pathology report, operative records from any earlier abdominal surgery, scan images and a summary of systemic treatment.

Further information

Further reading: Ovarian, fallopian tube and peritoneal cancer treatment (professional reference) — National Cancer Institute.

Prepare for your consultation →

This overview is general education. It does not establish a diagnosis, recommend a treatment for an individual, or confirm availability of a procedure.