Cancers in the abdominal area (including ovarian cancer, colon cancer, stomach cancer, pancreatic cancer, gallbladder cancer, appendiceal cancer and mesothelioma) often spread. Cancerous cells can leave the main tumors and settle inside the abdomen; these microscopic cells can form new tumors. Peritoneal chemoperfusion is used to kill those stray cells by circulating chemotherapy drugs in the abdomen following surgery. At UPMC Cancer Centers, peritoneal chemotherapy is given by the David C. Koch Regional Perfusion Cancer Therapy Center.
In peritoneal chemoperfusion, following the removal of as much of the tumor as possible, the surgeon closes the abdomen and places an “in” tube and an “out” tube through the abdominal wall (see illustration). These tubes are connected to a pump and heating device which is used to circulate chemotherapy drugs through the abdomen for 90 to 120 minutes. The peritoneum, a membrane that lines the abdomen, keeps the drugs from exiting the abdomen; this makes it possible to use high levels of drugs with minimal side effects. When the treatment is done, the abdomen is washed out to remove any remaining drug. The surgeon then removes the tubes and finishes the operation.
Complete information on peritoneal chemoperfusion is available from the David C. Koch Regional Perfusion Cancer Therapy Center.