Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer linked to asbestos exposure. A promising option for treating the cancer includes cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with heated chemotherapy (HIPEC). A new article explains cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for the treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma. Cytoreductive surgery removes as many tumors as possible. In the case of peritoneal mesothelioma, visible tumors in the abdomen are targeted including on the intestines, liver, and spleen. Extensive surgery is crucial for longer survival. It involves the removal of multiple organs to eradicate all cancer cells. This reduces the tumors to a microscopic level, which can help make treatments more effective. It is also important to select the right patients. Only those with good health and a disease extent that can handle major surgery are considered.
After surgery, the next step is HIPEC. HIPEC is a combination of heat and chemotherapy. The solution is heated to 41-43 degrees Celsius (105.8-109.4 degrees Fahrenheit). This temperature kills cancer cells and boosts effectiveness of the drugs. HIPEC is applied directly to the area, which reduces overall toxicity. The procedure lasts 60-90 minutes and is done during surgery.
CRS alongside HIPEC enhances survival rates in peritoneal mesothelioma patients. It is also beneficial because it is a localized treatment. When chemotherapy is applied directly, doses can be higher with fewer side effects. HIPEC alongside cytoreductive surgery is also able to lower recurrence. It targets tiny cancer cells remaining after surgery.
CRS and HIPEC are very invasive involving large incisions and organ removal. Some cancer centers are adopting minimally invasive methods of treating peritoneal mesothelioma which can lower patient complications and speed up recovery. The surgeries use smaller incisions to lower recovery time and reduce post-surgery issues. These methods are typically for patients with a low peritoneal cancer index score. The lower the score, the smaller amount of disease in a patient. Studies show that minimally invasive techniques are both safe and effective. They are comparable to open surgery for some patients because their short-term recurrence rates and overall survival are similar.
Surgery and heated chemotherapy are key treatments for peritoneal mesothelioma. They boost survival and quality of life in peritoneal mesothelioma patients. In some cases, less invasive methods could be warranted, making treatment even safer for the right patients. Ongoing studies will improve patient selection and treatment, which aims for better outcomes. Knowing about these treatments is vital for patients and their families. It helps them make informed choices and manage mesothelioma care.
