What Is HIPEC?
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) is an advanced and highly specialized treatment designed for certain abdominal cancers that have spread within the peritoneal cavity — the inner lining of the abdomen.
Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which circulates through the bloodstream, HIPEC delivers heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity immediately after the surgical removal of visible tumors.
This allows doctors to target microscopic cancer cells more precisely, while minimizing harm to healthy tissues and reducing systemic side effects. The chemotherapy solution is heated to 41–43°C (105–109°F) to enhance its effectiveness — heat improves drug absorption and helps destroy cancer cells that might otherwise survive surgery.
When Is HIPEC Used?
HIPEC is typically offered to patients whose cancer has spread within the abdominal cavity but has not affected distant organs. It may be considered for:
- Colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastases
- Gastric (stomach) cancer spreading to the abdominal lining
- Ovarian cancer involving the peritoneum
- Appendiceal tumors or pseudomyxoma peritonei
- Primary peritoneal cancer or peritoneal mesothelioma
At BB Global Health, HIPEC candidacy is determined through a multidisciplinary review, ensuring that each patient’s overall health, tumor type, and disease extent make them suitable for this intensive yet promising therapy.
How the HIPEC Procedure Works
HIPEC is performed immediately after Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) — a meticulous operation where surgeons remove all visible cancer from the abdominal cavity.
The process has two key stages:
- Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS):
All visible tumors are carefully removed to minimize remaining disease. - Heated Chemotherapy Circulation:
The abdominal cavity is filled with a heated chemotherapy solution, which is circulated continuously for 60–120 minutes.
This ensures the entire peritoneal surface is treated and microscopic cancer cells are eliminated.
Once completed, the solution is drained, the cavity is rinsed, and the surgical area is closed.
This powerful combination of surgery and localized chemotherapy significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.
Benefits of HIPEC Treatment
For the right patients, HIPEC offers unique advantages:
- 🎯 Targeted therapy: High-dose chemotherapy is focused where it’s needed most.
- 💊 Reduced systemic toxicity: Lower exposure to the rest of the body compared to intravenous chemotherapy.
- 🔥 Heat-enhanced effect: Elevated temperature boosts drug absorption and effectiveness.
- ⏳ Improved outcomes: In well-selected cases, HIPEC can extend survival and improve quality of life.
At BB Global Health, every HIPEC procedure is performed using state-of-the-art perfusion systems under the supervision of an experienced multidisciplinary oncology team, ensuring the highest standards of safety and precision.
Risks and Considerations
HIPEC is a major surgical treatment and requires careful patient selection and recovery planning. Possible side effects may include:
- Fatigue, nausea, or temporary digestive changes
- Risk of infection or wound complications
- Longer recovery times compared to standard surgery
Because of these factors, only medically fit patients whose cancer is confined to the abdomen are considered for HIPEC at BB Global Health.
A Multidisciplinary Approach at BB Global Health
Each HIPEC case begins with a comprehensive tumor board discussion that includes:
- Surgical oncologists
- Medical oncologists
- Radiologists and pathologists
- Anesthesiologists and critical care specialists
This team-based approach ensures every decision is individualized, evidence-based, and made with the patient’s safety and long-term well-being in mind.
Throughout diagnosis, surgery, and recovery, patients are supported by a dedicated care team that integrates medical expertise with compassionate attention.
Why Choose BB Global Health for HIPEC Treatment
As a global center for advanced cancer care, BB Global Health combines world-class surgical oncology expertise, modern technology, and personalized care for international patients.
We provide:
- Expert surgeons with extensive HIPEC experience
- Advanced operating facilities and perfusion systems
- Comprehensive post-treatment care and follow-up coordination
Our mission is clear: to provide every patient with the best possible chance at long-term survival and recovery, no matter where they come from.
Contact BB Global Health today to learn more about HIPEC treatment options or to schedule a consultation with our oncology specialists.
