HIPEC
Pronunciation: HY-pek
Also written as: HIPEC — Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy
Heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy administered during cytoreductive surgery for peritoneal carcinomatosis.
Full Definition
HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) is a specialized treatment approach that combines cytoreductive surgery with heated chemotherapy administered directly into the peritoneal cavity. In gynecologic oncology, HIPEC is primarily used for treating peritoneal carcinomatosis from ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancers. The procedure involves surgical removal of all visible tumor followed by circulation of heated chemotherapy solution throughout the abdominal cavity for a specified duration. The hyperthermia enhances drug penetration and cytotoxicity while the direct application allows for higher local drug concentrations with reduced systemic toxicity. This complex procedure requires specialized equipment and expertise in high-volume cancer centers.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out on first use; used in specialized oncology centers.
In Context
- "The patient was evaluated for HIPEC candidacy following optimal cytoreductive surgery." — oncology consultation note
- "HIPEC with cisplatin was performed after complete cytoreduction of the peritoneal disease." — operative report