Health Problem: Peritoneal mesothelioma (PM) is a rare primary tumor affecting the serosal (watery) lining of the peritoneum.

Technology Description: Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPC) is used as an adjunct to surgery for the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) due to PM. HIPC occurs immediately following optimal cytoreductive surgery (CRS). During HIPC, chemotherapeutic drugs are introduced directly into the peritoneal space to eliminate microscopic tumors on the peritoneal lining and outer surfaces of affected organs and to kill tumor cells that have disseminated throughout the cavity. Heating enhances the cytotoxic effect of the drugs.

Controversy: CRS plus HIPC is associated with substantial perioperative morbidity. Definitive patient selection criteria are needed to identify patients who are most likely to benefit from this procedure.

Key Questions:

  • Is CRS plus HIPC effective for improving outcomes in patients with PC originating from PM?

  • What harms are associated with CRS plus HIPC?

  • Have definitive patient selection criteria been established for CRS plus HIPC for PC originating from PM?

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