Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy : Cost of HIPEC treatment in Turkey 2024

What is hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) treatment?

Hyperthermic Intra-Peritoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a combination of surgery and chemotherapy specifically designed for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis.

Following surgery to remove as much tumor tissue as possible, a chemotherapy solution is heated to a high temperature (between 106 and 109°C) and then introduced directly into the abdominal cavity.

This innovative therapeutic approach combines the effectiveness of heat, which makes cancer cells more susceptible to drugs, with that of chemotherapy to destroy remaining tumor cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

HIPEC process in Turkey

Prior to receiving HIPEC treatment, a rigorous evaluation is performed to ensure that the patient is able to tolerate the treatment. This evaluation includes several medical tests, such as blood work and imaging.

Stages of HIPEC treatment

HIPEC treatment is performed in two main stages. The first involves surgery to remove as many tumors as possible from the abdomen. This surgery, called cytoreduction, significantly reduces the amount of cancer present.

The second stage is HIPEC itself. After surgery, a heated chemotherapy solution is introduced directly into the abdomen. This heat, combined with the anti-cancer drugs, helps to more effectively eliminate the remaining cancer cells.

The chemotherapy solution is continuously stirred and circulated in the abdominal cavity for about an hour and a half to optimize its effectiveness. This maximizes contact between the chemotherapy agents and the remaining cancer cells, while minimizing the effect on normal tissues.

Postoperative course

After treatment, the surgeon closes the incision and begins the appropriate post-operative care. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor the patient's progress and to adjust the treatment if necessary.

Each HIPEC treatment is individualized to the patient and his or her type of cancer. Therefore, it is important to discuss all aspects of treatment with your medical team before making a decision. In fact, the drugs used, the length of treatment, and the follow-up care may vary from one patient to another and from one healthcare facility to another.

Clinical indications for HIPEC therapy

Eligibility for HIPEC depends on a number of criteria, including the type of cancer, its stage, your overall health, and your age.

In general, if you are facing colorectal, appendiceal, gastric or ovarian cancer, or peritoneal mesothelioma, HIPEC could be a therapeutic solution worth exploring.

The HIPEC technique offered by our partner clinics in Turkey provides an innovative and personalized therapeutic approach. This surgical technique consists of infusing an anti-cancer solution directly into the abdomen after surgery to eliminate residual tumor cells.

Our expert medical team will thoroughly evaluate your case to determine if HIPEC is the best treatment option for you.

Take advantage of a free teleconsultation with our experts to discuss your case and explore all treatment options. Your health is our priority. We are committed to providing you with the most comprehensive information and the best care possible.

Optimal synergy for a stronger fight against cancer

The combination of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) offers an innovative therapeutic approach that allows for:

• Optimized treatment delivery: CRS-induced vascular dilatation facilitates deep penetration of chemotherapeutic agents, ensuring optimal coverage of the peritoneal area.
• Significant reduction in systemic side effects: By confining chemotherapeutic agents to the peritoneal cavity, HIPEC limits their spread throughout the body, sparing healthy organs.
• More complete tumor destruction: This combined approach more effectively eliminates cancer cells, primary tumors and peritoneal metastases, improving patient prognosis.

Risks associated with HIPEC

Although the benefits of the HIPEC technique are numerous, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. These risks are related to the invasive nature of the surgery and the ancillary treatments.

During surgery

During surgery, it is possible that blood vessels in the abdominal wall may be damaged. If this happens, special surgical techniques can be used to limit bleeding, but sometimes a blood transfusion may be needed.

Rarely, sutures in the digestive tract may not heal properly, resulting in a leak. Medical or surgical treatments are available to manage this complication.

After the procedure

After the HIPEC procedure, the patient may experience:

• Infection: Abscesses may form, requiring antibiotics, local care, or surgery.
• Intestinal transit problems: Digestion may be slowed as a result of the surgery. Measures will be taken to make it easier to resume eating.
• Blood clots: There is an increased risk of phlebitis (a clot in a vein) and pulmonary embolism (a clot that travels to the lungs). Medication and preventive measures are prescribed to reduce this risk.

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Medical teams in Turkey will take preventive measures and provide appropriate treatment to minimize these complications.