Is Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Beneficial After Gastric Cancer Surgery?

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is not commonly performed following gastric cancer surgery, but it can be a valuable treatment option for patients with peritoneal metastasis. This technique involves using a specialized machine to circulate heated chemotherapy drugs directly into the abdominal cavity, maintaining a constant temperature and duration during the procedure. The combination of heat and chemotherapy enhances the effectiveness of the treatment, while the mechanical flushing action helps remove cancer cells from the peritoneal surface.

HIPEC is particularly effective for patients with gastric cancer that has spread to the peritoneum, especially in cases where there is no significant accumulation of ascites. For patients diagnosed with advanced-stage gastric cancer, the risk of peritoneal recurrence after surgery remains high. Even after curative resection, the five-year survival rate is relatively low due to the likelihood of postoperative metastasis. In such cases, intraperitoneal chemotherapy may be considered to reduce the risk of recurrence.

However, not all post-surgery patients require HIPEC. While traditional intraperitoneal chemotherapy can be beneficial, HIPEC involves a more complex procedure and is typically reserved for select patients with a higher risk of peritoneal involvement, such as those with late-stage disease or extensive lymph node metastasis. Doctors will evaluate each case carefully to determine whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks associated with the procedure.

In conclusion, HIPEC can play a role in managing peritoneal metastasis in advanced gastric cancer patients, especially after surgery. It offers a targeted and intensified approach to treating residual cancer cells in the abdominal cavity. However, it should be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the patient's overall condition and stage of disease.