Morbidity and mortality with cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy: the importance of a learning curve. Cancer J. 2009;15:196-199. [PMID: 19556904 DOI: 10.1097/ppo.0b013e3181a58d56]

Morbidity and mortality of patients with peritoneal malignancy following cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to record the incidence, and identify the prognostic variables of morbidity and mortality in patients with peritoneal malignancy undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

METHODS

The files of patients with peritoneal malignancy who underwent CRS + HIPEC from 2015-2022 were retrieved. Morbidity and hospital mortality were recorded and correlated to a variety of clinical variables.

RESULTS

A total of 44/192 (22.9%) patients were recorded with postoperative complications. Grade 3 and 4 complications were 12.5%. The possible prognostic variables of morbidity were the extent of peritoneal malignancy and the number of suture lines. The mortality rate was 2.5% (5 patients). The number of FFP units, and peritonectomy procedures were identified as possible prognostic variables of hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The morbidity rate in patients undergoing CRS + HIPEC is acceptable compared to morbidity of previous publications or major gastrointestinal surgical operations. The possible prognostic variables of morbidity are the extent of peritoneal malignancy, and the number of suture lines. The mortality rate is low. The possible prognostic variables of mortality are the number of FFP units, and the number of peritonectomy procedures.

Pattern of Care in Real-World Scenario on Advanced Epithelial Ovarian Cancer in a Tertiary Referral Oncology Centre in India - ISPSM Collaborative Study

The treatment of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) has evolved over time. With advent of platinum-based chemotherapy and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), there is a paradigm shift in the patterns of care with improved survival. In this study, we analysed our advanced EOC patients aiming to gain insights into the pattern of care. An ambispective study of 250 patients of advanced EOC was done from our prospectively maintained computerised database in the Department of Surgical Oncology, tertiary care referral centre from 2013 to 2020. We analysed the demographic profile, treatment patterns, and perioperative outcomes. In this study, there were 83.6% stage III and 16.4% stage IVA. There were 62 (24.8%) upfront and 112 (44.8%) in interval settings. There was a higher number of patients receiving neo-adjuvant chemotherapy. One hundred twenty-six (50.4%) underwent cytoreductive surgery (CRS) only and 124 (49.6%) underwent CRS and HIPEC. CC-0 was achieved in 84.4% and CC-1 in 15.6% patients. HIPEC programme was started in 2013. With advent of RCTs in HIPEC, there was a substantial increase in the number of patients receiving HIPEC from 2015 (n = 10), 2017 (n = 20) to 2019 (n = 41). We offer secondary CRS in a limited subset of patients, n = 76 (30.4%). There was 24.8% early and 8.4% late postop complications. We have median follow-up of 50 months with attrition rate of 4%. With practice changing updates, the treatment of advanced EOC has been evolving over time. Though the primary CRS followed by systemic therapy is the standard to date, there is change in pattern of care with neo-adjuvant chemotherapy followed by interval CRS and HIPEC because of various RCTs. The addition of HIPEC has acceptable morbidity and mortality. There is a definite learning curve and the team has to evolve as a whole. In a tertiary care referral centre from LMIC, good patient selection, logistics, and implementing recent advances will definitely add to improved survival.

Preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing improves risk assessment of morbidity and length of stay following cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are the standard treatment for selected patients with peritoneal malignancy. The optimal means of assessing risk prior to these complex operations is not known. This study explored the associations between preoperative cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) variables and postoperative outcomes following elective CRS and HIPEC. This study included patients who underwent routine preoperative CPET prior to elective CRS and HIPEC at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney between July 2017 and July 2020. CPET was performed using a cycle ergometer and measured peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ peak) and anaerobic threshold (AT). Outcomes included in-hospital morbidity, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay and hospital stay. The associations between preoperative CPET variables and postoperative morbidity were assessed using univariate and multivariate analyses. A total of 129 patients were included. Mean age was 56 years (standard deviation (SD) 12.5 years), and colorectal cancer was the most common indication for CRS and HIPEC. The overall complication rate was 69%, and two (1.6%) patients died in hospital. Patients who did not develop any postoperative complication had slightly higher preoperative AT and VO₂ peak and shorter length of hospital stay. Data in this study support the role of CPET prior to CRS and HIPEC as an adjunct to improve risk assessment.

Starting a peritoneal carcinomatosis treatment program in a developing country: A prospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has become a valuable treatment strategy for selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). In Chile, it is an emerging technique. The aim of this study is to describe our protocol and report our perioperative results.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained database for patients undergoing exploratory surgery for PC was reviewed. Eligible patients were selected using the peritoneal cancer index in correlation with the primary tumor. Patients underwent HIPEC using mitomycin C. Clinical data and postoperative results were analyzed.

RESULTS

Seventy-six patients underwent exploratory surgery. Most patients were female (55%) with a median age of 62 years (range, 25-83). Complete CRS and HIPEC were achieved in 53 patients. The most frequent primary tumor site was colon-rectum (49%). The median number of resected organs was 4 (range, 1-13). Overall 90-day incidence of major complications was 26%. After a median follow-up of 26 months, 44 patients (83%) in the resected group were alive with no evidence of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The PC treatment program at our institution has been established in a safe manner, with acceptable morbidity comparable to high-volume centers. A comprehensive preoperative evaluation, careful patient selection, and a cohesive team are necessary for successful results.

Low Preoperative Serum Albumin Levels Are Associated With Impaired Outcome After Cytoreductive Surgery and Perioperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Peritoneal Surface Malignancies

Preoperative hypoalbuminemia is known to be associated with postoperative morbidity and mortality, as well as with poor survival after gastrointestinal cancer surgery. However, limited data exist regarding the prognostic significance of hypoalbuminemia in patients with peritoneal metastases undergoing cytoreductive surgery, combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. We performed a systematic literature review of the previously published studies addressing the potential association between preoperative albumin levels and overall surgical outcomes after the performance of cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal surface malignancies. Our research yielded a total of nine retrospective studies which met our inclusion criteria, and despite their heterogeneity; and we can conclude that preoperatively low albumin levels are associated with greater likelihood of overall and major morbidity, as well as less favorable oncological outcome after the performance of cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site, a study of 25 patients over 30 years

INTRODUCTION

Peritoneal carcinomatosis may be diagnosed by cytology or CT-guided biopsy, but routine radiologic and endoscopic workup not reveal a primary site. The clinical condition is referred to as peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site.

METHODS

Over a 30-year time interval all patients treated with an initial diagnosis of carcinomatosis of unknown primary site were managed on a special clinical pathway. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, colonoscopy, and abdominal and pelvic CT were performed. Immunostains suggested a gastrointestinal origin of the carcinomatosis. After these tests, exploratory laparotomy was performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five patients fulfilled the criteria for peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site and all 25 of these patients underwent an exploratory laparotomy. Special attention to the anatomic site of the appendix occurred during the exploratory laparotomy. No site within the gastrointestinal tract including a non-cancerous appendix was observed in 9 patients (36%). In 7 patients (28%), the carcinomatosis was so extensive that an adequate exploration to determine a primary site was not possible. In a third group of 9 patients (36%), exploratory laparotomy revealed an occult appendiceal malignancy.

CONCLUSION

Peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site was caused by an occult appendiceal adenocarcinoma in 36% of our patients. This error in diagnosis may lead to suboptimal treatment. Surgical exploration to visualize the anatomic site of the appendix should occur prior to making a definitive diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site.

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy enhances blood coagulation perioperatively evaluated by thromboelastography: a pilot study

Background and Objectives: Postoperative thromboembolism is a significant cause of prolonged recovery in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Thromboelastography (TEG) can detect hypercoagulable states and predict thromboembolic complications after surgery. This study assessed the impact of CRS and HIPEC on TEG values.Methods: TEG parameters reaction time (R), kinetics time (K), angle (α), maximum amplitude (MA), and lysis percent at 60 min (LY60) were determined preoperatively, and at the end of CRS, during HIPEC, and at the end of the operation using blood samples from 15 HIPEC patients. Platelets, P-TT, and aPTT were also determined before and after CRS.Results: A total of 75 samples were analyzed. During CRS, there was a significant reduction in the mean MA (3.06 mm, p = 0.001). The mean P-TT declined by 32% (p < 0.001) and mean platelets by 55 × 10⁹/L (p < 0.001). During HIPEC, the mean R and K shortened by 1.04 min (p = 0.015) and 0.18 min (p = 0.018), respectively, whereas α increased by 2.48° (p = 0.005).Conclusions: During CRS, both TEG and conventional laboratory tests indicated hypocoagulation. During HIPEC, however, the initiation of coagulation and the kinetics of thrombin formation were accelerated.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site may be an undiagnosed appendiceal adenocarcinoma. A case series

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Peritoneal carcinomatosis from unknown primary site must be a diagnosis of exclusion.

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Peritoneal metastases in the absence of a primary site by definitive radiologic and endoscopic tests does occur.

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An occult appendiceal adenocarcinoma may be the cause of the peritoneal carcinomatosis.

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Visualization of a normal appendix by exploratory laparotomy or laparoscopy is a new requirement for the diagnosis.

Background

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is sometimes diagnosed by cytology or by biopsy, but routine radiologic and endoscopic workup may not reveal a primary site. This clinical condition is called adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site.

Methods

The clinical findings of two patients with adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site were presented and the implications for management of similar patients were suggested.

Results

The patient had the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma of unknown primary site made when cancer was discovered at the time of umbilical hernia repair or laparoscopy. Radiologic and endoscopic tests were not definitive in providing the primary site for the malignancy. Exploratory laparotomy was performed which revealed an appendiceal mucinous adenocarcinoma as the cause of the peritoneal carcinomatosis. Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) were used at the time of the exploratory laparotomy to treat the appendiceal adenocarcinoma with peritoneal metastases.

Conclusions

Peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site may be caused by an occult appendiceal adenocarcinoma. This error in diagnosis may lead to suboptimal treatment. Surgical exploration to visualize a normal appendix should occur prior to making a definitive diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis of unknown primary site.

Current practices and barriers to referral for cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC among colorectal surgeons: A binational survey

INTRODUCTION

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has gained traction for the management of peritoneal metastases. The number of specialist units globally offering CRS/HIPEC is increasing. The aim of this survey was to assess current practices and barriers to referral for CRS/HIPEC among colorectal surgeons in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An online questionnaire was emailed to members of the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSSANZ). The survey contained 3 sections: namely; demographics, referral patterns and clinical scenarios. Questions on referral patterns included number of peritoneal metastases patients seen per year and referred to a CRS/HIPEC unit, awareness of such a unit and distance from principle place of practice. Different pathologies referred were also explored, as well as investigations performed. Barriers to referral were also surveyed.

RESULTS

The response rate was 28% (83/296). Twenty-five percent received CRS training. Most surgeons (95%) were aware of a CRS/HIPEC unit and had referred to one previously. Thirty-nine percent would refer all patients. Provision of good service and/or relationship with CRS/HIPEC specialist were the main reasons for referring to the nearest unit, followed by accessibility. Major factors preventing referral included extent of peritoneal disease (48%), patient characteristics and comorbidities (44%) and lack of evidence (20%). The most common pathologies referred included colorectal and appendiceal peritoneal metastases and pseudomyxoma peritonei.

CONCLUSION

Colorectal specialist awareness of CRS/HIPEC units and accessibility is high. Strategies to improve referring physician/surgeon knowledge on patient selection and indications for CRS/HIPEC should be investigated and instituted to ensure all appropriate patients are referred to specialist units for discussion of suitability.

CHIPOFIL: A pilot study assessing the feasibility of HIPEC without extracorporeal circuit

Background

Heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is currently performed using an external circuit including a heating device and a pump. Available devices have several drawbacks in terms of costs, technique (flow surges due to blocked tubes) and staff safety, hindering a wider use. In a previous preclinical study conducted in animals, we placed a heating wire within the abdomen to achieve and maintain hyperthermia. Our results showed this technique is safe and effective. The present pilot study was conceived as the first use of such a device in humans, aiming to confirm its safety and efficacy.

Methods

This was a pilot study designed to include 13 patients undergoing HIPEC. Two sets of the prototype were placed within the abdominal cavity, one in the supramesocolic and one in the inframesocolic space. The target temperature was 42–43 °C during 30–90 min according to the protocol defined for each patient. The time to set up, heat and dismantle was measured. All complications were recorded during the first postoperative year and evaluated by an independent committee.

Results

Nine women and four men were included. The median time to set on the device was 25 min. The target temperature was obtained in a median of 14 min and maintained uniform and homogeneously distributed within the abdomen for the scheduled duration. A permanent stirring of the viscera was performed. No thermal injury or device-related complications were observed. There were two anastomotic leaks (only one requiring reoperation), two hemoperitoneum requiring reoperation, one evisceration and one gastroparesia.

Conclusions

A heating cable within the peritoneal cavity can achieve safe, simple, fast and efficient HIPEC.

Accelerating the learning curve in cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy using an external mentor model

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an accepted therapeutic approach in selected patients with peritoneal malignancy. The aim of this study was to describe early outcomes in the first 50 patients managed with CRS and HIPEC in a newly established peritoneal malignancy centre in Sydney, Australia, under the guidance of an experienced peritoneal malignancy mentor.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of a prospective maintained database of early outcomes in the first 50 patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC between April 2017 and April 2018 at a newly established peritoneal malignancy centre. Type of primary, surgery time, length of hospital stay, blood loss, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, completeness of surgery, complications, recurrence rate and 30-day mortality were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 135 patients were referred and reviewed at the multidisciplinary team meeting with 50 (26 male) patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC. Of these 50 patients, 47 (94%) underwent complete cytoreduction while three (6%) had maximal tumour debulking surgery. Tumour pathology was of appendix origin (44%) and colorectal peritoneal metastases (44%). Median surgical time was 7.4 h (interquartile range 5.7-10.0). Median length of hospital stay was 13 days (interquartile range 9.7-19.0). Six (12%) patients experienced a grade III or IV Clavien-Dindo complication. There was no 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

This study reports the successful establishment of a peritoneal malignancy centre under the guidance of an experienced peritoneal malignancy mentor. The short-term surgical outcomes observed in the first 50 cases are promising and comparable to other more experienced centres.

Learning Curve, Training Program, and Monitorization of Surgical Performance of Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Centers

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy is a complex procedure with high cost and significant morbidity and mortality. The associated learning curve is steep and could reliably be evaluated using specific statistics. Risk-adjusted sequential probability ratio test is an effective and robust method to monitor surgical performance in the learning and audit phase of a peritoneal surface malignancies center development. The most critical factor associated with surgical performance is mentoring of the trainee by an expert. A well-structured tutor-based training program has been implemented in Europe. This initiative will improve the standardization of the combined procedure and improve quality of services across the continent.

Morbidity and Mortality Following Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Data from the DGAV StuDoQ Registry with 2149 Consecutive Patients

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are performed for well-selected patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. This combined treatment is potentially associated with an increased rate of complications.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper was to analyze the morbidity and mortality of CRS and HIPEC in the German national registry.

METHODS

We present a retrospective analysis of 2149 consecutive patients from 52 hospitals. The data were prospectively documented in the DGAV StuDoQ Registry between February 2011 and December 2016.

RESULTS

Almost two-thirds of all patients had a colorectal malignancy; therefore, the most frequently performed resections were colectomies (54%) and rectal resections (30%). Only 36.2% of all patients had no anastomosis, and fewer than 20% of all patients were older than 70 years of age (16.4%). Enteric fistula and anastomotic leaks occurred in 10.5% of all cases. The reoperation rate was 14.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 11.51-18.1). Major grade 3 and 4 complications (Clavien-Dindo classification) occurred in 19.3% of all patients, half of which were due to surgical complications. The overall 30-day postoperative hospital mortality was 2.3% (95% CI 1.02-3.85). Multivariate analysis showed an increased risk for morbidity associated with pancreatic resections (odds ratio [OR] 2.4), rectal resection (OR 1.5), or at least one anastomosis (OR 1.35), and mortality with reoperation (OR 8.7) or age > 70 years (OR 3.35).

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and HIPEC are associated with acceptable morbidity and low mortality. These results show that CRS and HIPEC can be safely performed nationwide when close mentoring by experienced centers is provided.

Biphasic learning curve of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy:technical competence and refinement of patient selection

Background

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is routinely used for selected patients with peritoneal metastasis, but can be associated with high complication rates, prolonged hospital stay, and mortality. Our objective was to determine the learning curve of CRS/HIPEC in our institution, representing the largest Asian cohort to date.

Methods

A total of 200 consecutive patients with peritoneal metastasis treated with CRS/HIPEC between 2001 and 2016 were grouped into four cohorts of 50 patients and studied. Primary outcomes were severe morbidity (Clavien-Dindo III-V), procedure-related mortality, and duration of ICU and hospital stays. Secondary outcome was duration of surgery.

Results

Median age was 53 years (10–75). There was no significant age, sex, or histology difference across cohorts. Rates of severe morbidity (23 %), and 60 day inpatient mortality (0.5 %) were comparable to previously reported data. Decreases in rates of serious morbidity, (34 %, 30 %, 12 %, 14 %, p<0.01) and duration of total hospital stay (14, 16, 13, 12 days, p=0.041) were seen across consecutive cohorts. Operation time decreased significantly after the first cohort (10, 7.8, 7.8, 7.2 h, p<0.01), despite increase in average PCI score after the first cohort (8, 14, 12, 13, p=0.063).

Conclusions

Whilst 50 cases were adequate for procedural familiarity and decreased average operation time, significant improvement in rate of serious morbidity was observed after 100 operations. We demonstrate a novel biphasic nature to the learning curve, reflecting initial training in which technical competence is achieved, followed by a subsequent period characterized by increasingly complex cases (higher PCI score) and finally refinement of patient selection.

Current practice of Latin American centers in the treatment of peritoneal diseases with cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC

INTRODUCTION

A combination therapy of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been proposed as a treatment option in patients with peritoneal metastasis of colorectal, ovarian, gastric cancers and sarcomas and as a current standard treatment for pseudomyxoma peritonei and peritoneal mesothelioma. There is a need to standardize its indication, drugs selection along with their concentrations and ways to deliver peritoneal chemotherapy solutions for best outcomes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To investigate the current practice of Latin American (LA) Centers in which peritoneal diseases (PD) are treated.

PATIENT AND METHODS

All centers from Latin American Registry of Peritoneal Diseases (LARPD) were invited to participate in a two rounds online survey, to describe their current practice in all indications of CRS with HIPEC for PD.

RESULTS

76 out of 84 LARPD's centers answered the survey, with a response rate of 90,5%. The results represent the current practice of 248 surgeons that are members of LARPD's centers, in 8 LA countries, that at the time of the study had treated 2682 patients with CRS with HIPEC. All current practice aspects including indications, contra-indications, patient selection, methods of peritoneal chemotherapy delivery and treatment protocols are described in this manuscript.

CONCLUSIONS

This survey is the first LA effort to publish current practice indications and treatment protocols of PD. Achieving consensus of best therapeutic options is essential to provide the best possible outcomes for patients with PD who could benefit from CRS with HIPEC therefore aiming at standardization of the procedure.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in ovarian and gastrointestinal peritoneal carcinomatosis: results from a 7-year experience

Background

An increasing promising evidence and increasing long-term oncologic outcomes support the use of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) as locoregional treatment for peritoneal carcinosis (PC) especially from ovarian and gastrointestinal tumors, but also for others cancers.

Methods

A prospective monocentric study was performed in Papa Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Bergamo (Italy). Patients and tumor characteristics were analyzed. Overall survival (OS), disease free survival (DFS) and morbidity were analyzed with Kaplan-Meier curves and log-rank testing.

Results

A total of 150 patients undergone CRS + HIPEC were analyzed from January 2011 to June 2017. The principal origins of PC were: gastric cancer (GC) (n=40), colon cancer (n=31), appendiceal cancer (AC) (n=18), ovarian cancer (OC) (n=49), others (n=12). Major morbidity [≥3 Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE)] and perioperative mortality rates were 38% and 2.7% respectively. Re-operation rate was 15.3%. Median OS is 9, 35, 47, 51, 82 months (29% 3-year OS; 27% 5-year OS; 48% 5-year OS; 40% 5-year OS; 67% 5-year OS respectively) in GC, colorectal cancer (CRC), OC, others tumors and AC respectively. Median DFS is 4, 14, 17, 19, 82 months (32% 3-year DFS; 22% 5-year DFS; 29% 5-year DFS; 11% 5-year DFS; 67% 5-year DFS respectively) in GC, CRC, others tumors, OC and AC respectively.

Conclusions

A therapeutic approach that combined CRS + HIPEC could achieve long-term survival in selected groups of patients with PC from gastrointestinal, gynecological and others tumors with acceptable morbidity and mortality. A good expertise and a high volume of patients are necessary to manage PC and to further improve results.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: morbidity and postoperative outcomes

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) followed by hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) represents a treatment option for peritoneal surface malignancies. Even if it has been reported that this new approach improved survival of selected patients, it is still associated with high morbidity and mortality rates.

METHODS

From October 1995 to December 2017, over 450 patients affected by peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) underwent in our Institute CRS associated with HIPEC. For this preliminary analysis we considered 300 patients presenting PC of different origin: pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP, N.=98), epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC, N.=87), peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM, N.=49) and colorectal cancer (CRC, N.=66). Postoperative morbidity and mortality were studied in order to identify possible risk factors.

RESULTS

The morbidity rate was 36.3% in all procedures (109/300). According to the Clavien-Dindo Classification, 67 cases (22.3%) were associated with grade I-II complications and 35 cases (11.7%) with grade III-IV. Surgical and medical complication rates were 8.3% (25/300) and 11.3% (34/300), respectively. The mortality rate was 2.3%. Reoperation was needed in 28 patients (9.3%). The operative time, the number of anastomosis, of peritonectomy procedures, of visceral resections performed and the PCI value resulted the most statistically significant factors influencing postoperative morbidity and mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The risks of perioperative morbidity and mortality after CRS and HIPEC are analogous to any other major gastrointestinal surgery. CRS and HIPEC should remain a treatment option for highly-selected patients in whom a curative or life prolonging treatment is a pursuit and should be performed in high volume specialized institutions.

CRS and HIPEC for PMP-Use of the LC-CUSUM to Determine the Number of Procedures Required to Attain a Minimal Level of Proficiency in Delivering the Combined Modality Treatment

The learning curve for cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) which peaks at 90 procedures for the surgeon may take several years to reach. The cumulative summation (CUSUM) test of the learning curve (LC-CUSUM) was used to assess the safety of the procedure (minimal level of proficiency for the surgeon) in terms of morbidity, mortality, and completeness of cytoreduction and early oncological failure before the peak of the learning curve had been reached. The limits for h0 and h1 were set based on the results of large series of such cases published before. From 2011 to 2016, 77 patients with PMP underwent CRS and HIPEC. The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 28 and 75% of the patients had a CC-0/1 resection. The grade 3-4 morbidity was 42.6% and the mortality was 5.2%. The 5-year overall survival (OS) was 62.3% and the 3-year disease-free survival (DFS) was 71%. The LC-CUSUM analysis showed that for in-hospital mortality, acceptable limits are reached after the 57th case, after the 38th case for the grade 3-4 morbidity and CC-2/3 resections both and after the 70th case for early oncological failure. The number of cases required to attain a minimal level of proficiency for each prognostic variable is different. Using the CUSUM test, surgeons can analyze their performance and determine the areas in which they need to improve before the peak of the learning curve is reached. These outcomes reflect the performance of the multidisciplinary team and not the surgeon alone.

Does having a gastrectomy delay time to feeding and prolong hospital stay in patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy?

AIM

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is routinely used to treat selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis, but can be associated with prolonged hospital stay, significant morbidity and mortality. Our objective was to assess whether patients undergoing gastrectomy as part of CRS/HIPEC were at increased risk of delayed feeding time and prolonged hospital stay.

METHODS

Two hundred and fourteen consecutive patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis treated with CRS/HIPEC between 2001 and 2016 were stratified by whether CRS included gastrectomy (n = 19, 9%) and compared. Primary outcomes were time to full feeds and rate of serious morbidity (Clavien-Dindo grades III-V). Secondary outcomes were durations of ICU and hospital stays.

RESULTS

Of 214 patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC, those undergoing gastrectomy (19, 8.9%) had increased time to full feeds (8 vs. 5 days, p < 0.01), and duration of ICU (2 vs. 1 days, p < 0.01) and total hospital stays (16 vs. 14 days, p = 0.013). There was no significant increase in serious complications, although increased risk of pneumonia was noted (21% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.011). Undergoing gastrectomy was not independently prognostic in multivariable analysis including high peritoneal tumour load (PCI >12), multiple CRS procedures (number >2) and operation duration (>480 min) in which operative duration remained independently prognostic (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

After surgery, early oral refeeding may be beneficial in the majority of patients undergoing CRS/HIPEC. However, patients found to have high peritoneal tumour load with extended surgery and those who underwent gastrectomy should be considered for early post-operative TPN due to the significant risk of delayed time to full feeds.

Infectious Complications after Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intra-Peritoneal Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to review the post-operative and infectious complications and determine the risk factors associated with infections in cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intra-peritoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Between October 2007 and December 2013, patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC with a curative intent were included in the study. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Nosocomial Infections Surveillance System definitions were used to identify post-operative nosocomial infections.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-nine CRS and HIPEC procedures were performed. Overall, 155 complications were observed in 82 (48.5%) patients. Grade 3-4 morbidity rate was 25.5% (n = 43). Seventy infections occurred in 47 patients. Surgical site infection was the most common infectious complication. The most common micro-organism isolated from the cultures was Escherichia coli. Age (odds ratio [OR]1.039, confidence interval [CI] 1.006-1.073), the mean total number of staff scrubbing in the operation(OR 2.241, CI 1.415-3.548), and intensive care unit stay (OR 1.325, CI 0.953-1.842) were independent risk factors for infectious complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Infectious complications are the most important cause of peri-operative morbidity and death in CRS and HIPEC. As well as patient and tumor characteristics, surgeon/center-related factors play an important role in infectious morbidity. Patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis should be considered as a complex oncologic group at high risk of infectious complications.

A critical analysis of the cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy combo in the clinical management of advanced gastric cancer: an effective multimodality approach with scope for improvement

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) is manifested in up to 40% of gastric cancer (GC) patients, after which their 5-year survival drops to less than 5%. The currently most acceptable treatment option for advanced GC (AGC) is systemic chemo and radio therapies with however generally very unsatisfying results and this led to a resurgence of interest in regional therapies like cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Small trials have indicated an association with prolonged survival when applying this technique to AGC manifesting with PC. High procedure-related morbidity and mortality associated with the CRS-HIPEC approach have however brought by a polemic on the merits of the latter: with the advent of regulatory approval of more effective as well as novel, more personalized treatment options in AGC, along with advances in tailoring investigational agents specifically for peritoneal delivery, there clearly is a need to outline the appropriate role of CRS-HIPEC in this disease. In a clear objective to improve the therapeutic efficiency of HIPEC, there have been immense developments in the technical aspects of this technology including the use of nanotechnology in more precise drug delivery systems (DDS) or choice of more efficient drugs such as gene-target technology, laparoscopy and so on. Henceforth, in this review, we will be highlighting the past and current status of the CRS + HIPEC procedure, shedding light on the pros and cons in order to boost up the efficiency of this multimodality approach.

Morbidity and mortality of cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in advanced gastric cancer

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the leading cancer causes of death worldwide with high incidence of mortality. With limited available data from the previous literature, cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS-HIPEC) seems to provide substantial survival benefits to the advanced GC patients, especially in those with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). However, it is also considered as a high morbid approach. This review summarizes the current evidence regarding the perioperative safety of CRS-HIPEC in advanced GC patients. According to the currently available evidence, CRS-HIPEC causes surgery-related morbidity including abscess, fistula, and anastomotic leak, and chemotherapy-related morbidities such as leucopenia, anemia, thrombopenia, and heart, liver or renal toxicity. The incidence of the morbidity and mortality approximate 20% and 4.8% respectively, which are comparable to a major gastrointestinal surgery. Repeated evidence demonstrates that incidence of morbidity or mortality is significantly influenced by the institutional experience. Centers undertaking this treatment strategy must aim to minimize morbidity and mortality by learning from the experienced units and carefully selecting candidate patients. Patients with advanced age or greater disease burden seem to be at greater risks and thus application of CRS-HIPEC on them must be based on an extensive evaluation and multi-disciplinary team (MDT) discussion.

Treatment of peritoneal surface malignancies with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy-current perspectives

Peritoneal carcinomatosis (ptc) represents advanced malignant disease and has generally been associated with a grim prognosis. Peritoneal surface malignancy is often the major source of morbidity and mortality; it is of major concern in cancer management. Although ptc is categorized as metastatic disease, it represents a special disease pattern considered to be a locoregional disease limited to the abdominal cavity. The combination of cytoreductive surgery (crs) and intraoperative hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (hipec) has successfully been used as locoregional treatment for selected patients with ptc from gastric, colorectal, and ovarian cancer; with mesothelioma; and with pseudomyxoma peritonei. In the prophylactic setting, hipec can also be used to prevent ptc in high-risk patients, and the first results of the "second-look" approach are promising. Patient selection-in which the risks of perioperative morbidity and mortality, which are analogous to those for any other major gastrointestinal surgery, are assessed-is of utmost importance. Those risks have to be weighed against the anticipated survival benefit, which depends mainly on tumour biology, extent of disease, and probability of achieving complete crs. The present review discusses the principles of crs and hipec, the most significant recent clinical data, and current perspectives concerning the application of this treatment modality in various malignancies. Ongoing trials and future directions are noted. It appears that the combination of crs and hipec is an indispensable tool in the oncologist's armamentarium.

Complications of Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC in the Treatment of Peritoneal Metastases

The combined treatment concept of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has shown to be an efficient therapeutic option for selected patients with primary and secondary peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). This strategy represents the standard of care for diseases like pseudomyxoma peritonei and peritoneal mesothelioma, and offers the best long-term results for PC from colorectal cancer. Despite these results, skepticism exists regarding this therapeutic approach partly because of its perceived high toxicity. In this article, we review the current evidence on complications that can occur after CRS and HIPEC and the risk factors associated with increased incidence of morbidity and mortality.

The Initial Indian Experience with Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC in the Treatment of Peritoneal Metastases

Worldwide, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been used for nearly 3 decades to treat peritoneal metastases (PM), improve quality of life, and prolong survival substantially in selected patients. In India, the use of the combined modality of treatment dates back a decade with majority of the efforts taking place within the last 5 years. The first PSOGI workshop (India) held in April 2015, at Bangalore, India offered an opportunity for Indian surgeons performing CRS and HIPEC to share their experience. To study the methodologies of CRS and HIPEC (hospital set up, equipment, training and surgical background) as well as the outcomes in terms of perioperative morbidity and mortality and short and long term survival of patients treated in India, Indian surgeons who had treated at least 10 patients with this combined modality were invited to present their experience. Data collection was retrospective. Analysis of the pooled data was carried out. Eight surgeons treated 384 patients with CRS and HIPEC over a period of 10 years. The commonest primary sites were ovary (as first line therapy n = 124), followed by appendix, including pseudomyxoma peritonei (n = 99), colorectum (n = 77), recurrent ovary (as second line therapy, n = 33), stomach (n = 15), primary peritoneal cancer (n = 10), peritoneal mesothelioma (n = 9) and rare tumors in 17 patients. The weighted mean PCI for all 384 patients was 18.25. 349/384 patients (90.88 %) had a complete cytoreduction (completeness of cytoreduction score of CC-0/1). Grade 3-5 complications developed in 108 patients (27.34 %) and 30 day mortality occurred in 28 (7.29 %) patients. This study showed that CRS and HIPEC can be performed with an acceptable morbidity and mortality in Indian patients. Most of the surgeons are on the learning curve and further improvement in these outcomes is expected over a period of time. Pooling of data related to both common and rare peritoneal cancers would be useful in knowing the disease behavior, response to treatment and outcomes in Indian patients. The 2015 PSOGI meeting provided a unique platform for data presentation with feedback from international experts in the field of peritoneal surface oncology. Future meetings are planned to expand the evaluation of Indian data and progress.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in gastric cancer

Gastric cancer associated peritoneal carcinomatosis (GCPC) has a poor prognosis with a median survival of less than one year. Systemic chemotherapy including targeted agents has not been found to significantly increase the survival in GCPC. Since recurrent gastric cancer remains confined to the abdominal cavity in many patients, regional therapies like aggressive cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) have been investigated for GCPC. HIPEC has been used for three indications in GC- as an adjuvant therapy after a curative surgery, HIPEC has been shown to improve survival and reduce peritoneal recurrences in many randomised trials in Asian countries; as a definitive treatment in established PC, HIPEC along with CRS is the only therapeutic modality that has resulted in long-term survival in select groups of patients; as a palliative treatment in advanced PC with intractable ascites, HIPEC has been shown to control ascites and reduce the need for frequent paracentesis. While the results of randomised trials of adjuvant HIPEC from western centres are awaited, the role of HIPEC in the treatment of GCPC is still evolving and needs larger studies before it is accepted as a standard of care.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy in the Pre-operative Assessment of Patients Undergoing Cytoreductive Surgery and HIPEC for Peritoneal Surface Malignancies

The introduction of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has led to an improvement in the survival of select patients with peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM). However, it is important to carefully identify patients who will benefit from this procedure and to avoid an unnecessary laparotomy in those who will not. The currently available imaging modalities are unable to accurately predict the peritoneal cancer index (PCI) score or the completeness of cytoreduction. In this article, we review the current status of staging laparoscopy in the assessment of patients with PSM who are planned for CRS & HIPEC. We discuss the patient selection, techniques, complications and efficacy of staging laparoscopy. To summarise, staging laparoscopy is a safe and feasible method of pre-operative assessment of patients with PSM. It has a high sensitivity and positive predictive value in identifying patients who can undergo a complete cytoreduction, thereby preventing many patients from undergoing an unnecessary laparotomy. With the exception of pseudomyxoma peritonei, it should be considered as a part of the routine assessment of patients with PSM who are being considered for CRS & HIPEC.

A New Etiology for the Abdominal Compartment Syndrome: Pseudomyxoma Peritonei

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare diagnosis with an incidence of 1-2 per million. Most cases originate from an appendix which ruptures and releases mucin into the peritoneal cavity. The progression of the disease results in obstruction and cutaneous leak. Abdominal compartment syndrome is an uncommon complication of peritoneal pseudomyxoma. In the present article, we report the case of a patient with PMP and abdominal compartment syndrome. A laparotomy to decrease the abdominal pressure was performed. Three months later, a peritonectomy with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy was performed. The patient was still alive 1 year after the procedure without any recurrence. In conclusion, acute abdominal pain and respiratory failure in patients with peritoneal PMP should lead to the measurement of the abdominal pressure but are not a contra indication for curative treatment of PMP.

The results of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in 1200 patients with peritoneal malignancy

AIM

The study determined the outcome of 1200 consecutive patients treated for peritoneal malignancy in one surgical unit over a 20-year period.

METHOD

A retrospective analysis was conducted of a custom designed prospective database of patients undergoing surgery for peritoneal malignancy since 1994. Patient demographics, tumour type, extent of surgery and outcome were recorded.

RESULTS

Between 1994 and January 2014 (when the 1200th case had undergone surgery) 2956 patients were referred with a diagnosis of peritoneal malignancy. Pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendiceal origin was the pathology in 956/1200 (79.7%) patients. Other aetiologies included colorectal peritoneal metastases [89/1200 (7.4%)], abdominal mesothelioma [65/1200 (5.4%)] and miscellaneous [90/1200 (7.5%)]. Overall 863/1200 (71.9%) had complete cytoreduction, 294 (24.5%) had maximal tumour debulking and 43 (3.6%) had laparotomy only. The proportion undergoing complete cytoreduction per quartile of 300 patients was 60.7%, 65.0%, 77.0% and 80.3%. Laparotomy and biopsy fell from 6.4% in the first quartile to 2.7%, 1.7% and 1.3% in subsequent quartiles. The 30-day mortality in the four quartiles was 3.0%, 1.0%, 0.7% and 0.7%. The 5-year survival was 84% in the 636 patients with appendix tumours who had complete cytoreduction, 76% in the 38 with abdominal mesothelioma and 44% in the 60 with colorectal peritoneal metastases.

CONCLUSION

A centralized approach facilitated high volume experience in a single centre with an increase in the completeness of surgical excision rates and a reduction in mortality and morbidity over time.

Looking up: Recent advances in understanding and treating peritoneal carcinomatosis

Until recently, a diagnosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis was uniformly accompanied by a grim prognosis that was typically measured in weeks to months. Consequently, the management of carcinomatosis revolves largely around palliation of symptoms such as bowel obstruction, nausea, pain, fatigue, and cachexia. A prior lack of effective treatment options created the nihilistic view that currently exists and persists despite improvements in the efficacy of systemic therapy and the evolution of multimodality approaches including surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This article reviews the evolution and current state of treatment options for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. In addition, it highlights recent advances in understanding the molecular biology of carcinomatosis and the focus of current and future clinical trials. Finally, this article provides practical management options for the palliation of common complications of carcinomatosis. It is hoped that the reader will recognize that carcinomatosis is no longer an imminent death sentence and that through continued research and therapeutic innovation, clinicians can make an even greater impact on this form of metastatic cancer.

Peritoneal cancer treatment

INTRODUCTION

In the past, peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM) was considered as a final stage of cancer, and patients were offered the best supportive care. Recently, a new therapeutic alternative approach based on the combination of surgery with chemotherapy was developed. In this curative intent, the macroscopic disease was treated with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with perioperative chemotherapy, including neoadjuvant chemotherapy, hyperthermic intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy, extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage and early postoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy

AREAS COVERED

This article reviews the mechanisms of the formation of PSM, quantitative estimation of PSM and residual disease, multimodal treatment, value of laparoscopy, prognostic factors and patients' selection for the multimodal therapy.

EXPERT OPINION

Recent studies show that CRS plus intraperitoneal chemotherapy applications confer prolonged survival in patients with PSM from colorectal, gastric, ovarian, appendiceal mucinous carcinoma and diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. The comprehensive treatment is now justified as state-of-the-art for patients with peritoneal metastasis.

[Morbidity and mortality of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion]

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (PIC) is a treatment option for peritoneal surface malignancy. Despite the survival benefits, this treatment was previously associated with a high morbidity and mortality rates, and the perception of the poor perioperative outcomes associated with this regimen remains. Careful patient selection with an optimal level of postoperative care must be advocated to avoid undesirable complications of this treatment.However, for this treatment to be accepted as standard of care, teams undertaking this treatment strategy must aim to minimize morbidity and mortality by learning from the experience of established centers and using the "global learning curve". The HIPEC Registry and accreditation of centers will improve the quality of the treatment.

[Perioperative conflicts between anaesthesiologists and surgeons: ethics and professionalism]

In the perioperative period, several potential conflicts between anaesthetists/intensive care specialists and surgeons may exist. They are detrimental to the quality of patient care and to the well-being of the teams. They are a source of medical errors and contribute to burn-out. Patients can become the victims of such conflicts, which deserve ethical reflection. Their resolution through analysis and shared solutions is necessary. This article seeks to analyse these conflicts, taking into account their specificities and constraints. In order to understand this context, it is important to consider the specificities of each group involved and the records of such situations. Several factors can prevent these conflicts, first and foremost the patients themselves and the quality of the care that is provided. Medical deontology aims mainly at preventing and resolving these conflicts. Generally speaking, the quality approach which is increasingly applied in health care institutions (involving declarations of adverse events, morbidity/mortality reviews, benchmarking, analysis and improvement of practices, etc.) also contributes to the prevention and resolution of disagreements. The teaching of communication techniques that begins with the initial training, the evaluation of team behaviours (through simulation training for example), the respect of others' constraints, particularly when it comes to learning, as well as transparency regarding conflicts of interests, are all additional elements of conflict prevention. Lastly, conflicts may at times be caused by deviant behaviours, which must be met with a clear and uncompromising collective and institutional approach. This article concludes by offering a standardised approach for conflict resolution.

Genitourinary resection at the time of cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal carcinomatosis is not associated with increased morbidity or worsened oncologic outcomes: a case-matched study

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has gained acceptance in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis with reported morbidity and mortality rates of 27-56 and 0-11 %, respectively. The safety and oncologic outcome of genitourinary repair at the time of CRS and HIPEC remains unclear.

METHODS

We identified 170 patients who underwent CRS-HIPEC at our institution between July 2007 and August 2011 with a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Thirty-four (20 %) underwent concomitant urologic reconstruction at the time of CRS-HIPEC and were matched by disease burden (intraoperative peritoneal cancer index [PCI]) and extent of surgery (ΔPCI) with a cohort of 38 (22.3 %) subjects without genitourinary involvement. The primary end points considered for this analysis included the development of major surgical (Clavien-Dindo Class III-V) complications and overall survival.

RESULTS

Median follow-up was 9.4 months. The most commonly performed urologic interventions included partial cystectomy with primary repair in 23 (65.7 %) and segmental ureteral resection and repair in 11 (31.4 %). Patients with genitourinary reconstruction had more total organ involvement (6.5 vs. 4.3, p < 0.001) and more commonly underwent enteric anastomoses (82.4 vs. 57.9 %, p = 0.025). No significant differences were observed with regard to major morbidity, need for transfusion, operative time, intensive care unit admission, or length of stay. Among patients with appendiceal or colonic tumors (n = 46), overall survival was similar between genitourinary reconstruction and matched cohorts: 22.5 versus 15.1 months, respectively (p = 0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

Genitourinary reconstruction at the time of CRS-HIPEC occurs more commonly in patients with extensive disease burden undergoing radical debulking, yet does not adversely influence surgical morbidity or survival.