HIPEC Treatment: A Major Advancement for Treating Abdominal Cancers

The battle against cancer continues to see major advancements with innovative treatment methods, one of which is the HIPEC treatment (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy). This cutting-edge procedure combines surgery with heated chemotherapy, offering fresh hope to patients suffering from advanced abdominal cancers.

HIPEC surgery involves a two-stage approach, specifically targeting advanced abdominal cancers. The first stage is a surgical procedure called cytoreduction, where as many visible cancerous tumors as possible are removed. This is followed by the second stage where heated chemotherapy is directly administered to the abdominal cavity, providing targeted treatment for the microscopic cancer cells that remain after surgery. According to Dr. TreeshaTooryJugessur of the Prashanth IVF Clinic & Information Center, this technique significantly increases survival chances for patients with advanced or "inoperable" cancers.

HIPEC and Resistant Cancers

Patients with resistant forms of cancer that do not respond to conventional treatments, such as peritoneal cancer, may benefit greatly from HIPEC. This method has proven particularly effective in treating cancers of the ovaries, colon, stomach, and pancreas, as well as mesothelioma. Another added benefit of HIPEC is its ability to treat the accumulation of fluid (ascites) caused by these cancers, greatly improving patients' quality of life.

How Does the HIPEC Procedure Work?

HIPEC surgery begins with the phase of cytoreduction under general anesthesia, where the surgeon visualizes and removes all visible tumors. Following this, heated chemotherapy is introduced into the abdominal cavity. The chemotherapy circulates for approximately 60 to 90 minutes, directly targeting the remaining residual cancer cells. Heated chemotherapy intensifies the treatment effect, helping eliminate cancer cells more effectively.

Though innovative, the success of the HIPEC procedure largely depends on a multidisciplinary approach before, during, and after the surgery, a comprehensive and continuous support system is critical for optimal outcomes.While HIPEC and heated chemotherapy have been available for some time, the application of this method for treating abdominal cancers is relatively new in Mauritius.

Becoming a Parent After Chemotherapy: Possible Options

Chemotherapy, a critical treatment in the fight against many cancers, can unfortunately affect fertility. However, several options are available today to preserve ovarian or testicular function and allow individuals to fulfill their dream of becoming parents despite the experience of cancer.

     1. Egg Freezing (Oocyte Cryopreservation): This technique involves collecting and freezing a woman's eggs before starting chemotherapy. It is especially recommended for young women as it offers them the opportunity to conceive children in the future, either through intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF).

     2. Embryo Freezing: This option is available for married couples. The eggs are fertilized with the partner's sperm and then frozen for future use.

     3. Sperm Freezing: Men can freeze their sperm before undergoing chemotherapy to preserve their fertility. This sperm can later be used for assisted reproductive techniques like IVF.

     4. Ovarian Tissue Freezing: For young girls or women who cannot produce eggs, ovarian tissue can be frozen before treatment. This tissue can later be transplanted back to restore ovarian function.

     5. Testicular Tissue Freezing: For prepubescent boys or those who cannot produce a sperm sample, testicular tissue can be frozen for future use.

Combining Cancer Treatment with Fertility Preservation

The innovations in cancer treatment and fertility preservation techniques reflect a future filled with hope for patients and survivors. HIPEC is extending survival rates for those with advanced abdominal cancers, offering a new lease on life for many who had previously been considered beyond help. At the same time, fertility preservation options are ensuring that cancer survivors do not have to choose between survival and parenthood.

As the medical field continues to advance, patients can look forward to better treatment outcomes, improved quality of life, and the possibility of realizing their dreams of having children. By working closely with oncologists and fertility specialists, cancer patients can access comprehensive care that addresses both their immediate health concerns and their future family-building aspirations.

Together, these advancements represent a powerful evolution in cancer care—one that prioritizes not only life-saving treatment but also the long-term well-being and hopes of cancer survivors.