Cytoreduction and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy: The learning curve reassessed

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy outcomes in peritoneal carcinomatosis: 11-year tertiary-center experience

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are techniques developed for curative treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). Studies have shown that CRS + HIPEC provides a survival advantage in PC, and long-term survival can be achieved in selected cases. This study aimed to evaluate CRS + HIPEC cases performed for curative purposes and to examine the prognostic factors.

METHODS

PC patients who underwent CRS + HIPEC with curative intent between January 2011 and September 2022 were included. Demographic, clinical, and pathological findings, procedure-specific parameters, complications, mortality, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were analyzed.

RESULTS

Optimal cytoreduction was achieved in 70% of the patients. The median PFS for the entire series was 9.2 months, while the median OS was 20.5 months, with a 3-year OS rate of 36%. Appendiceal origin, cytoreduction score, absence of lymph node metastasis, and absence of complications were factors associated with a positive impact on both PFS and OS. In multivariate analysis, cytoreduction score emerged as the sole independent factor influencing both PFS and OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the results in our series, cases of PC in which complete cytoreduction can be achieved should be evaluated for CRS + HIPEC.

Building an Efficient Peritoneal Surface Malignancies Program Despite the Lower-Middle-Income Barriers: Ukraine Experience

PURPOSE

Cytoreductive surgery/hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) programs are often limited to centers in developed countries because of extensive requirements. We aimed to analyze efficacy and challenges of CRS/HIPEC centers in lower-middle-income settings in the Ukraine example.

METHODS

A multicenter descriptive study was conducted using data sets (2008-2022) from Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa centers. Patients with appendiceal neoplasm (AN); colorectal cancer (CRC); malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (MPM); and epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancer (EOC) treated with CRS ± HIPEC were included. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed for N ≥ 20 cohorts using the Kaplan-Meier method.

RESULTS

We included 596 patients. At Kyiv and Lviv centers, 37 and 28 patients with AN had completeness of cytoreduction (CC-0/1) rates of 84% and 71%, respectively. Thirty-day major morbidity stood at 24% and 18%, respectively. Median OS was not reached (NR) at both centers. Nineteen patients with CRC from Kyiv, 11 from Lviv, and 156 from Odesa had CC-0/1 rates of 84%, 91%, and 86%, respectively. Thirty-day major complications occurred in 16%, 18%, and 8%, respectively. Median OS in the Odesa cohort was 35 (95% CI, 32 to 38) months. Among 15 Kyiv, five Lviv, and six Odesa patients with MPM, CC-0/1 rates were 67%, 80%, and 100%, respectively, while major complications occurred in 13%, 0%, and 17%, respectively. OS was not analyzed because of small MPM cohorts. At Kyiv, Lviv, and Odesa centers, 91, 40, and 89 patients, respectively, had primary EOC. CC-0/1 rates were 79%, 100%, and 80%, and 30-day major morbidity rates were 23%, 5%, and 6%, respectively. Median OS was NR, 71 (95% CI, 32 to 110), and 67 (95% CI, 61 to 73) months, respectively.

CONCLUSION

CRS/HIPEC programs in lower-middle-income environment can achieve safety and survival that meet global standards. Our discussion highlights common obstacles in such settings and proposes effective overcoming strategies.

The contemporary management of peritoneal metastasis: A journey from the cold past of treatment futility to a warm present and a bright future

Peritoneal metastasis (PM) is often regarded as a less frequent pattern of spread; however, collectively across all spectra of primary tumors, the consequences of PM impact a large population of patients annually. Unlike other modes of metastasis, symptoms at presentation or during the treatment course are common, representing an additional challenge in the management of PM. Early efforts with chemotherapy and incomplete surgical interventions transiently improved symptoms, but durable symptom control and survival extension were rare, which established a perspective of treatment futility for PM through most of the 20th century. Notably, the continued development of better systemic therapy combinations, optimization of cytoreductive surgery (CRS), and rigorous investigation of combining regional therapy-specifically hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy-with CRS, have resulted in more effective multimodal treatment options for patients with PM. In this article, the authors provide a comprehensive review of the data establishing the contemporary approach for tumors with a high frequency of PM, including appendix, colorectal, mesothelioma, and gastric cancers. The authors also explore the emerging role of adding hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy to the well established paradigm of CRS and systemic therapy for advanced ovarian cancer, as well as the recent clinical trials identifying the efficacy of poly(adenosine diphosphate ribose) polymerase maintenance therapy. Finally, recent data are included that explore the role of precision medicine technology in PM management that, in the future, may help further improve patient selection, identify the best systemic therapy regimens, detect actionable mutations, and identify new targets for drug development.

[Current status of surgical treatment of peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer]

Cytoreductive surgery, often in combination with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), has been instrumental in improving the survival of patients with peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer. Recent studies have highlighted the benefits of complete cytoreduction, while the role of the HIPEC treatment remains unclear. An oxaliplatin-based HIPEC over 30 min could not achieve any clear benefits in studies on colorectal cancer, neither in the therapeutic nor in the prophylactic setting, but caused relevant side effects and increased the morbidity. The negative results of these studies with respect to oxaliplatin-based HIPEC require critical appraisal; however, they should by no means be regarded as a general setback for surgical treatment of peritoneal metastases and be misunderstood as a general failure of this treatment. While HIPEC after complete surgical cytoreduction of peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer requires further research, cytoreductive surgery should still be regarded as a highly effective treatment for suitable patients with limited abdominal tumor dissemination.

The current role of secondary cytoreductive surgery for recurrent ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer represents worldwide the second most frequent and the most fatal gynecological malignancy, with approximately two thirds of the patients presenting with advanced disease. Cytoreductive surgery, primary or after neoadjuvant chemotherapy, in combination with platinum-based chemotherapy is the standard of care for these patients. Despite the improvement in quality of cytoreductive surgery as well as development of novel drugs and chemotherapy regimens, still most women with ovarian cancer will ultimately develop recurrent disease and die of their disease. In contrast to the management of primary disease, the standard treatment of patients with recurrent ovarian cancer remains a topic of debate. While platinum-based or second line systemic chemotherapy, depending on the time after last platinum treatment, is standard of care, the role of secondary cytoreductive surgery has been a controversial issue for the last decades. Potential outcome benefit must be also weighed against the risk of severe surgical morbidity, impairment of quality of life and costs. In platinum-resistant recurrent disease, i.e., relapse after less than 6 months from the last platinum-based chemotherapy for primary disease, secondary cytoreduction seems generally not to be indicated due to its aggressive biological behavior and the absence of effective systemic treatment. In this comprehensive review, the current role of cytoreductive surgery in platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer is discussed thoroughly in view of the results of most recent randomized trials and a meta-analysis. There seems to be definitely a role for secondary cytoreductive surgery in selected patients with ovarian cancer recurrence in whom complete resection of macroscopic disease is feasible. However, its role should be continuously reviewed due to the changing systemic treatment of patients with ovarian cancer recurrence over time.

Impact of cumulative complications on 1-year treatment-related healthcare costs in patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases undergoing cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of all minor and major complications on treatment-related healthcare costs in patients who undergo cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for the treatment of colorectal peritoneal metastases (PMs).

Method

Patients with histologically proven colorectal PMs who underwent CRS + HIPEC from March 2006 to October 2019 in a tertiary referral centre were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained database. Patients were divided into six subgroups according to the severity of the complications, which were scored using the comprehensive complication index (CCI) (CCI 0–9.9, CCI 10–19.9, CCI 20–29.9, CCI 30–39.9, CCI 40–49.9, and CCI 50 or higher). Treatment-related healthcare costs up to 1 year after CRS + HIPEC were obtained from the financial department. Differences in costs and survival outcomes were compared using the chi-squared test and Kruskal–Wallis H test.

Results

A total of 142 patients were included (CCI 0–9.9, 53 patients; CCI 10–19.9, 0 patients; CCI 20–29.9, 45 patients; CCI 30–39.9, 14 patients; CCI 40–49, 9 patients; and CCI 50 or higher, 21 patients). Median (interquartile range) treatment-related healthcare costs increased significantly and exponentially for the CCI 30–39, CCI 40–49, and CCI 50 or higher groups (€48 993 (€44 262–€84 805); €57 167 (€43 047–€67 591); and €82 219 (€55 487–€145 314) respectively) compared with those for the CCI 0–9.9 and CCI 20–29.9 groups (€33 856 (€24 433–€40 779) and €40 621 (€31 501–€58 761) respectively, P < 0.010).

Conclusion

Treatment-related healthcare costs increase exponentially as more complications develop among patients who undergo CRS + HIPEC for the treatment of colorectal PMs. Anastomotic leakages after CRS + HIPEC lead to an increase of 295 per cent of treatment-related healthcare costs.

Comprehensive Treatment Algorithms of the Swiss Peritoneal Cancer Group for Peritoneal Cancer of Gastrointestinal Origin

Peritoneal cancer (PC) is a dire finding, yet in selected patients, long-term survival is possible. Complete cytoreductive surgery (CRS) together with combination immunochemotherapy is essential to achieve cure. Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) are increasingly added to the multimodal treatment. The Swiss Peritoneal Cancer Group (SPCG) is an interdisciplinary group of expert clinicians. It has developed comprehensive treatment algorithms for patients with PC from pseudomyxoma peritonei, peritoneal mesothelioma, gastric, and colorectal origin. They include multimodal neoadjuvant treatment, surgical resection, and palliative care. The indication for and results of CRS HIPEC and PIPAC are discussed in light of the current literature. Institutional volume and clinical expertise required to achieve best outcomes are underlined, while inclusion of patients considered for CRS HIPEC and PIPAC in a clinical registry is strongly advised. The present recommendations are in line with current international guidelines and provide the first comprehensive treatment proposal for patients with PC including intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The SPCG comprehensive treatment algorithms provide evidence-based guidance for the multimodal care of patients with PC of gastrointestinal origin that were endorsed by all Swiss clinicians routinely involved in the multimodal care of these challenging patients.

Prolonged Exposure to Oxaliplatin during HIPEC Improves Effectiveness in a Preclinical Micrometastasis Model

Simple Summary

Absence of survival benefits when adding hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) with oxaliplatin to cytoreductive surgery in peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer has recently been shown in the randomized controlled PRODIGE 7 trial. We therefore aimed to investigate the effects of this treatment modality in a preclinical micrometastasis model. Cancer cells were incubated with either patient samples obtained during HIPEC procedures or with defined oxaliplatin-containing solutions prepared according to clinically established HIPEC protocols. Our results demonstrate a limited effectiveness of short-term HIPEC in simulations with oxaliplatin to eliminate micrometastases, although we used platinum-sensitive cell lines for our model. Since these results are in line with findings from current research, our studies might offer further convincing evidence and potential explanations for HIPEC futility observed in clinical application.

Abstract

Cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was considered a promising treatment for patients with peritoneal metastasis from colorectal cancer. However, the recently published randomized controlled PRODIGE 7 trial failed to demonstrate survival benefits through the addition of short-term oxaliplatin-based HIPEC. Constituting a complex multifactorial treatment, we investigated HIPEC in a preclinical model concerning the elimination of minimal tumor residues, thereby aiming to better understand the size of effects and respective clinical trial results. Patient samples of peritoneal perfusates obtained during HIPEC treatments and oxaliplatin-containing solutions at clinically relevant dosages, conforming with established HIPEC protocols, were assessed regarding their ability to eliminate modelled ~100 µm thickness cancer cell layers. Impedance-based real-time cell analysis and classical end-point assays were used. Flow cytometry was employed to determine the effect of different HIPEC drug solvents on tumor cell properties. Effectiveness of peritoneal perfusate patient samples and defined oxaliplatin-containing solutions proved limited but reproducible. HIPEC simulations for 30 min reduced the normalized cell index below 50% with peritoneal perfusates from merely 3 out of 9 patients within 72 h, indicating full-thickness cytotoxic effects. Instead, prolonging HIPEC to 1 h enhanced these effects and comprised 7 patients’ samples, while continuous drug exposure invariably resulted in complete cell death. Further, frequently used drug diluents caused approximately 25% cell size reduction within 30 min. Prolonging oxaliplatin exposure improved effectiveness of HIPEC to eliminate micrometastases in our preclinical model. Accordingly, insufficient penetration depth, short exposure time, and the physicochemical impact of drug solvents may constitute critical factors.

The impact of postoperative complications following cytoreductive surgery combined with oxaliplatin based heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy

INTRODUCTION

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) has become the mainstream treatment for peritoneal metastases of colorectal origin. This extensive treatment is known for its increased morbidity rate. In this study, the impact of postoperative complications on survival was evaluated in a high-volume centre.

PATIENTS AND METHOD

Between November 2016 through October 2018, all 106 patients with peritoneal metastases of colorectal origin treated with CRS + HIPEC with oxaliplatin were evaluated. Data on patient characteristics, Peritoneal Carcinomatosis Index (PCI), operative procedure, post-operative complications (Clavien-Dindo classification grade III or higher) and survival were collected. In-hospital postoperative complications were analysed for their association with patient characteristics, tumour load (PCI), and operative procedure with logistic regression analyses. Survival was analysed with the Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of 106 patients, 78% had an un-eventful in-hospital recovery. Of those patients who experienced complications, 52% patients had one complication and 48% had more than one. The median follow-up time was 33.8 months. Median survival was 22.4 months (95% CI 12.2-NR) for patients who experienced complications and not reached for those who did not. Survival was significantly associated with complications (HR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-4.0) as well as with PCI (HR 1.1, 95% CI 1.1-1.2) in univariate analyses. A stepwise Cox regression analysis showed both PCI and complications had an independent negative impact on survival.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative complications, independently of tumour load, led to reduced survival in patients with peritoneal metastases of colorectal origin when treated with CRS + HIPEC with oxaliplatin.

Quality Standards for Surgery of Colorectal Peritoneal Metastasis After Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

The standardization of surgical outcomes throughout surgical procedures is mandatory. Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) should provide proficient oncological and surgical outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

The aim of this study was to identify clinically relevant quality indicators and their quality standard, and to determine their acceptable quality limit. A systematic review on cytoreductive results from 2000 to 2018 was performed focusing on clinical guidelines, consensus conferences, and publications. After the selection of quality indicators, a systematic review of indexed references was performed in order to calculate the quality standard for each indicator.

STUDY SELECTION

Unicentric/multicentric series, comparative studies, and clinical trials. Studies were to include outcomes after cytoreduction of colorectal origin and series with more than 50 patients. Quality indicators with at least 10 series were mandatory and objective measurements were also mandatory for inclusion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Quality indicators selected were 1- to 5-year survival, overall disease-free survival, 1- to 5-year disease-free survival, complete surgical resection, duration of surgery, length of stay, overall morbimortality, major morbidity, re-intervention, postoperative hemorrhage, intestinal fistula, anastomotic leakage, wound infection, postoperative medical complications, overall recurrence, and failure to rescue.

RESULTS

The most relevant quality indicators and critical quality limits were overall disease-free survival and 5-year overall disease-free survival (14 months and <10 months, and 14% and <4%, respectively), completeness of surgical resection (89% and <80%, respectively), overall mortality (3% and >8%, respectively), overall morbidity (47% and >63%, respectively), failure to rescue (12% and <30%, respectively), reintervention (13 and <22%, respectively), anastomotic leakage (6% and <13%, respectively), and overall recurrence (60% and <74%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to assess quality standards in CRS + HIPEC for colorectal peritoneal metastases. The current data are of particular relevance for future studies to control the variability of this surgery.

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy for Ovarian and Colorectal Cancer: A Review

Importance

The peritoneal surface is a common site of disease in ovarian and colorectal cancer. Peritoneal metastases carry a poor prognosis, despite maximal therapeutic efforts, including surgical removal of tumor deposits and intravenous chemotherapy. Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is a single intraoperative procedure that delivers chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity, leading to high intracellular drug concentration at the peritoneal surface. This review describes the current knowledge regarding the mechanism of action, safety, and efficacy of HIPEC in the treatment of peritoneal metastases from epithelial ovarian and colorectal cancers and explores current knowledge gaps.

Observations

Toxic effects of HIPEC are limited. Evidence from a randomized trial shows improved recurrence-free and overall survival after HIPEC in patients with ovarian cancer who are ineligible for primary cytoreductive surgery (CRS). The effect of HIPEC for patients with ovarian cancer undergoing primary CRS or CRS for recurrent disease has not yet been determined, and results of ongoing trials must be awaited. A recent study in patients with peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer did not show a benefit of HIPEC when added to perioperative chemotherapy.

Conclusions and Relevance

Based on available evidence, various international guidelines include the option to add HIPEC to interval CRS for patients with stage III ovarian cancer. The role of HIPEC in colorectal cancer is less well defined. Future studies will need to tailor patient selection, timing, and optimal regimens of HIPEC to improve the effectiveness of this specialized treatment in ovarian, colorectal, and other tumor types.

The role of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis: a systematic review including evidence from Japan

The prognosis of peritoneal carcinomatosis is poor. However, the emergence of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) as a treatment option has prolonged survival and it can even potentially cure patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Randomized controlled studies and other observational studies indicated that this combined therapy potentially improved the prognosis of patients with colon, gastric, and ovarian cancers with acceptable morbidity and mortality rates. Even in rarer diseases, such as pseudomyxoma peritonei and malignant peritoneal mesothelioma, CRS + HIPEC markedly improved the prognoses over those with conventional treatment. Based on the accumulated evidence, clinical guidelines recommend CRS + HIPEC for selected patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. However, several issues still need to be overcome. A standard method for HIPEC has not yet been established. Furthermore, the criteria employed for patient selection need to be clarified to achieve real benefits. The peritoneal cancer index, chemo-sensitivity and several biological markers are considered to be key factors.

Nasogastric- vs. percutaneous gastrostomy tube for prophylactic gastric decompression after cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

Objectives

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is associated with postoperative gastroparesis and ileus. In 2015, our practice shifted from using percutaneous gastrostomy tubes (PGT), to nasogastric tubes (NGT) for prophylactic gastric decompression after CRS-HIPEC. This study aimed to compare these methods for length of stay (LOS) and associated complications.

Methods

Patients that underwent CRS-HIPEC for peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer between 2014 and 2019 were included. Cases were grouped based on receiving NGT or PGT postoperatively. Multivariable linear regression determined the independent effect of decompression method on LOS, thereby adjusting for confounders.

Results

In total, 179 patients were included in the analyses. Median age was 64 years [IQR:54–71]. Altogether, 135 (75.4%) received a NGT and 44 (24.6%) received a PGT. Gastroparesis occurred significantly more often in the PGT group (18.2 vs. 7.4%, p=0.039). Median LOS was significantly shorter for patients with a NGT (15 [IQR:12–19] vs. 18.5 [IQR:17–25.5], p<0.001). PGT was independently associated with longer LOS in multivariable analysis (Beta=4.224 [95%CI 1.243–7.204]). There was no difference regarding aspiration, pneumonia and postoperative mortality between groups.

Conclusions

NGT should be preferred over PGT for gastric decompression after CRS-HIPEC as it is associated with fewer gastroparesis and shorter LOS.

Guidelines of the Association of Polish Surgeons and the Polish Society of Surgical Oncology on the accreditation of healthcare centers providing cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for primary and secondary peritoneal cancers

Surgical interventions in patients with peritoneal metastases combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and systemic treatment are becoming more common and, when applied to selected patient groups, they reach 5-year survival rates of 32–52%. Good clinical outcomes require experienced and well-equipped healthcare centers, experienced surgical team and adequate patient qualification process. As a result of the discussion on the need for evaluation of quality of care and treatment outcomes and at the request of the Peritoneal Cancer Section of the Polish Society of Surgical Oncology, accreditation standards have been developed and the Accreditation Committee has been established for healthcare centers providing cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC for the management of primary and secondary peritoneal cancers.

Treatment of PERItoneal disease in Stomach Cancer with cytOreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraPEritoneal chemotherapy: PERISCOPE I initial results

BACKGROUND

The role of cytoreductive surgery combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in gastric cancer is unknown. This non-randomized dose-finding phase I-II study was designed to assess the safety and feasibility of HIPEC, following systemic chemotherapy, in patients with gastric cancer and limited peritoneal dissemination. The maximum tolerated dose of normothermic intraperitoneal docetaxel in combination with a fixed dose of intraperitoneal oxaliplatin was also explored.

METHODS

Patients with resectable cT3-cT4a gastric adenocarcinoma with limited peritoneal metastases and/or tumour-positive peritoneal cytology were included. An open HIPEC technique was used with 460 mg/m² hyperthermic oxaliplatin for 30 min followed by normothermic docetaxel for 90 min in escalating doses (0, 50, 75 mg/m² ).

RESULTS

Between 2014 and 2017, 37 patients were included. Of 25 patients who completed the full study protocol, four were treated at dose level 1 (0 mg/m² docetaxel), six at dose level 2 (50 mg/m² ) and four at dose level 3 (75 mg/m² ). At dose level 3, two dose-limiting toxicities occurred, both associated with postoperative ileus. Thereafter, another 11 patients were treated at dose level 2, with no more dose-limiting toxicities. Based on this, the maximum tolerated dose was 50 mg/m² intraperitoneal docetaxel. Serious adverse events were scored in 17 of 25 patients. The reoperation rate was 16 per cent (4 of 25) and the treatment-related mortality rate was 8 per cent (2 patients, both in dose level 3).

CONCLUSION

Gastrectomy combined with cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC was feasible using 460 mg/m² oxaliplatin and 50 mg/m² normothermic docetaxel.

Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy With Mitomycin C Used for Colorectal Peritoneal Carcinomatosis

Purpose

This study aimed to assess the evaluation of clinical outcomes and consequences of complications after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) for the peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from colorectal cancer.

Methods

A total 26 patients underwent CRS and HIPEC for PC from colorectal cancer between March 2009 and April 2018. All the patients underwent CRS with the purpose of complete or near-complete cytoreduction. Intraoperative HIPEC was performed simultaneously after the CRS. Mitomycin C was used as chemotherapeutic agent for HIPEC.

Results

Median disease-free survival was 27.8 months (range, 13.4–42.2 months). Median overall survival was 56.0 months (range, 28.6–83.5 months). The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 8.73 ± 5.54. The distributions thereof were as follows: PCI <10, 69.23%; PCI 10–19, 23.08%; and PCI ≥20, 7.69%. The completeness of cytoreduction was 96.2% of patients showed CC-0, with 3.8% achieved CC-1. The mean operation time was 8.5 hours, and the mean postoperative hospital stay was 21.6 days. The overall rate of early postoperative complications was 88.5%; the rate of late complications was 34.6%. In the early period, most complications were grades I–II complications (65.4%), compared to grades III–V (23.1%). All late complications, occurring in 7.7% of patients, were grades III–V. There was no treatment-related mortality.

Conclusion

Although the complication rate was approximately 88%, but the rate of severe complication rate was low. In selective patients with peritoneal recurrence, more aggressive strategies for management, such as CRS with HIPEC, were able to be considered under the acceptable general condition and life-expectancy.

Surgeons' Ability to Predict the Extent of Surgery Prior to Cytoreductive Surgery with Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy

Background

The extent of surgery (ES) during cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC) is a well-known risk factor for major postoperative morbidity. Interestingly, the reliability of surgeons to predict the ES prior to CRS + HIPEC is unknown.

Methods

In this prospective, observational cohort study, five surgeons predicted the ES prior to surgery in all consecutive patients with peritoneal metastases (PM) who were scheduled for CRS + HIPEC between March 2018 and May 2019. After the preoperative work-up for CRS + HIPEC was completed, all surgeons independently predicted, for each individual patient, the resection or preservation of 22 different anatomical structures and the presence of a stoma post-HIPEC according to a standardized ES form. The actual ES during CRS + HIPEC was extracted from the surgical procedure report and compared with the predicted ES. Overall and individual positive (PPV) and negative predictive values (NPV) for each anatomical structure were calculated.

Results

One hundred and thirty-one ES forms were collected from 32 patients who successfully underwent CRS + HIPEC. The number of resections was predicted correctly 24 times (18.3%), overestimated 57 times (43.5%), and underestimated 50 times (38.2%). Overall PPVs for the different anatomical structures ranged between 33.3 and 87.8%. Overall, NPVs ranged between 54.9 and 100%, and an NPV > 90% was observed for 12 anatomical structures.

Conclusions

Experienced surgeons seem to be able to better predict the anatomical structures that remain in situ after CRS + HIPEC, rather than predict the resections that were necessary to achieve a complete cytoreduction.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1245/s10434-020-08237-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

High-grade complication is associated with poor overall survival after cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is increasingly used in peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) management. This modality is criticized for its high morbidity and mortality. We evaluate the morbidity and mortality of patients undergoing this procedure in our institution.

METHODS

A review of our institution's database was performed. All patients who underwent CRS/HIPEC between July 2011 and March 2018 were divided into three groups: no, low-grade, and high-grade complications. Prognostic factors were determined with Cox regression, while morbidity risk factors were analyzed using multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

225 consecutive patients underwent CRS/HIPEC. The most common primary cancer types were colorectal (35.1%), appendiceal (25.8%), and ovarian (22.2%). Median age was 55 years old (range 14-77), and patients were typically female (68.0%). 38.7% developed low-grade complications and 14.7% had high-grade complications. No 30-day mortality was observed. Different tumor origins are associated with significant differences in overall survival (p < 0.001). Patients without complications had significantly better survival than those with high-grade complications (HR 0.35, 95% CI 0.15-0.81, p < 0.001). Males were more likely to develop low-grade complications (OR 3.30, 95% CI 1.31-8.30, p = 0.011). Intra-operative blood loss was associated with greater odds of developing any post-operative complications (OR 1.001, 95% CI 1.0003-1.002, p = 0.007; and OR 1.002, 95% CI 1.001-1.002, p < 0.001, for low and high grade, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Presence of high-grade complication was associated with poorer survival in patients after CRS/HIPEC. Pre-operative careful assessment of patients is pivotal to ensure favorable patient outcome following this complex procedure.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy as a Selection Tool for Patients with Colorectal Peritoneal Metastases to Prevent a Non-therapeutic Laparotomy During Cytoreductive Surgery

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the introduction of diagnostic laparoscopy (DLS) in patients with colorectal peritoneal metastases (PM) to prevent non-therapeutic laparotomies during cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS + HIPEC).

METHODS

Patients with histologically proven colorectal PM who underwent a laparotomy for potential CRS + HIPEC from January 2006 to January 2019 were retrospectively identified from a prospectively maintained database. In 2012, DLS was introduced in the preoperative work-up for CRS + HIPEC in our academic center. The rates of non-therapeutic laparotomies, major postoperative complications (Clavien-Dindo grade III or higher), and survival outcomes were investigated for patients who underwent a laparotomy before (cohort A) and after (cohort B) the introduction of DLS. In cohort B, the reasons to refrain from DLS were retrospectively explored from medical records.

RESULTS

Overall, 172 patients were included [cohort A: 48 patients (27.9%); cohort B: 124 patients (72.1%)]. A significant drop in the rate of non-therapeutic laparotomies occurred in cohort B compared with cohort A (21.0 vs. 35.4%: p = 0.044), despite only 85 patients (68.5%) from cohort B undergoing DLS in our academic center. The most important reason to refrain from DLS was a recently performed DLS or laparotomy in the referring hospital (48.7%). Major postoperative complications, in-hospital mortality, and survival outcomes were similar for both cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Performing DLS during the preoperative work-up for CRS + HIPEC prevents non-therapeutic laparotomies in patients with colorectal PM. We recommend performing this laparoscopic screening in an experienced HIPEC center.

Accelerating the learning curve in cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy using an external mentor model

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an accepted therapeutic approach in selected patients with peritoneal malignancy. The aim of this study was to describe early outcomes in the first 50 patients managed with CRS and HIPEC in a newly established peritoneal malignancy centre in Sydney, Australia, under the guidance of an experienced peritoneal malignancy mentor.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of a prospective maintained database of early outcomes in the first 50 patients who underwent CRS and HIPEC between April 2017 and April 2018 at a newly established peritoneal malignancy centre. Type of primary, surgery time, length of hospital stay, blood loss, peritoneal carcinomatosis index, completeness of surgery, complications, recurrence rate and 30-day mortality were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 135 patients were referred and reviewed at the multidisciplinary team meeting with 50 (26 male) patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC. Of these 50 patients, 47 (94%) underwent complete cytoreduction while three (6%) had maximal tumour debulking surgery. Tumour pathology was of appendix origin (44%) and colorectal peritoneal metastases (44%). Median surgical time was 7.4 h (interquartile range 5.7-10.0). Median length of hospital stay was 13 days (interquartile range 9.7-19.0). Six (12%) patients experienced a grade III or IV Clavien-Dindo complication. There was no 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSION

This study reports the successful establishment of a peritoneal malignancy centre under the guidance of an experienced peritoneal malignancy mentor. The short-term surgical outcomes observed in the first 50 cases are promising and comparable to other more experienced centres.

Cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy versus palliative systemic chemotherapy in stomach cancer patients with peritoneal dissemination, the study protocol of a multicentre randomised controlled trial (PERISCOPE II)

BACKGROUND

At present, palliative systemic chemotherapy is the standard treatment in the Netherlands for gastric cancer patients with peritoneal dissemination. In contrast to lymphatic and haematogenous dissemination, peritoneal dissemination may be regarded as locoregional spread of disease. Administering cytotoxic drugs directly into the peritoneal cavity has an advantage over systemic chemotherapy since high concentrations can be delivered directly into the peritoneal cavity with limited systemic toxicity. The combination of a radical gastrectomy with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has shown promising results in patients with gastric cancer in Asia. However, the results obtained in Asian patients cannot be extrapolated to Western patients. The aim of this study is to compare the overall survival between patients with gastric cancer with limited peritoneal dissemination and/or tumour positive peritoneal cytology treated with palliative systemic chemotherapy, and those treated with gastrectomy, CRS and HIPEC after neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy.

METHODS

In this multicentre randomised controlled two-armed phase III trial, 106 patients will be randomised (1:1) between palliative systemic chemotherapy only (standard treatment) and gastrectomy, CRS and HIPEC (experimental treatment) after 3-4 cycles of systemic chemotherapy.Patients with gastric cancer are eligible for inclusion if (1) the primary cT3-cT4 gastric tumour including regional lymph nodes is considered to be resectable, (2) limited peritoneal dissemination (Peritoneal Cancer Index < 7) and/or tumour positive peritoneal cytology are confirmed by laparoscopy or laparotomy, and (3) systemic chemotherapy was given (prior to inclusion) without disease progression.

DISCUSSION

The PERISCOPE II study will determine whether gastric cancer patients with limited peritoneal dissemination and/or tumour positive peritoneal cytology treated with systemic chemotherapy, gastrectomy, CRS and HIPEC have a survival benefit over patients treated with palliative systemic chemotherapy only.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrials.gov NCT03348150 ; registration date November 2017; first enrolment November 2017; expected end date December 2022; trial status: Ongoing.

Body surface area-based vs concentration-based perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy after optimal cytoreductive surgery in colorectal peritoneal surface malignancy treatment: COBOX trial

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal perioperative chemotherapy (HIPEC) are the standard of care for patients diagnosed with colorectal peritoneal surface malignancy (PSM). Despite a clearly defined standardization of CRS, a large variety of HIPEC modalities are still used in clinical practice.

METHODS

Body surface area (BSA)- and concentration-based HIPEC protocols were clinically and pharmacologically evaluated in a randomized phase III clinical pilot trial. Oxaliplatin dose was 460 mg/m ² (BSA-based) in 2 L/m ² carrier solution (concentration-based). Platinum quantification was performed using a validated inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method. Three-month morbidity, mortality, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) were assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty-one patients were randomized to either BSA- or concentration-based HIPEC. Toxicity and efficacy were higher (P < 0.001) in patients receiving concentration-based HIPEC. There was no difference in pharmacologic advantage between the two groups. A higher drug concentration in the tumor nodule at the end of HIPEC was found in the HIPEC-concentration group. There was no difference in major morbidity and mortality between the treatment groups. HRQOL was decreased 3 months postoperatively in the HIPEC-concentration group.

CONCLUSION

Concentration-based chemotherapy delivers the drug in the most standardized way to the tumor nodule, resulting in increasing drug concentrations in the tumor nodule without increasing major morbidity.

Peritoneal Surface Oncology in Singapore

Peritoneal surface malignancy is now an established indication for cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy. The landscape of treatment in Singapore has evolved through the years, with expanded indications as the experience in the management of this disease improves.

Morbidity and Mortality Following Cytoreductive Surgery and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Data from the DGAV StuDoQ Registry with 2149 Consecutive Patients

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are performed for well-selected patients with peritoneal surface malignancies. This combined treatment is potentially associated with an increased rate of complications.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper was to analyze the morbidity and mortality of CRS and HIPEC in the German national registry.

METHODS

We present a retrospective analysis of 2149 consecutive patients from 52 hospitals. The data were prospectively documented in the DGAV StuDoQ Registry between February 2011 and December 2016.

RESULTS

Almost two-thirds of all patients had a colorectal malignancy; therefore, the most frequently performed resections were colectomies (54%) and rectal resections (30%). Only 36.2% of all patients had no anastomosis, and fewer than 20% of all patients were older than 70 years of age (16.4%). Enteric fistula and anastomotic leaks occurred in 10.5% of all cases. The reoperation rate was 14.6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 11.51-18.1). Major grade 3 and 4 complications (Clavien-Dindo classification) occurred in 19.3% of all patients, half of which were due to surgical complications. The overall 30-day postoperative hospital mortality was 2.3% (95% CI 1.02-3.85). Multivariate analysis showed an increased risk for morbidity associated with pancreatic resections (odds ratio [OR] 2.4), rectal resection (OR 1.5), or at least one anastomosis (OR 1.35), and mortality with reoperation (OR 8.7) or age > 70 years (OR 3.35).

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and HIPEC are associated with acceptable morbidity and low mortality. These results show that CRS and HIPEC can be safely performed nationwide when close mentoring by experienced centers is provided.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal malignancy: preliminary results of a multi-disciplinary teamwork model in Asia

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (CRS/HIPEC) is an emerging surgical procedure for peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC). CRS/HIPEC is a complicated treatment that requires multi-disciplinary teamwork (MDT), which may be lacking when establishing a CRS/HIPEC programme. Herein, we report our preliminary treatment outcomes with the early implementation of an MDT model for CRS/HIPEC.

METHODS

From April 2015 to December 2016, 45 patients with a diagnosis of PC who received CRS/HIPEC were reviewed retrospectively in a single institution in Taiwan.

RESULTS

Among the 45 patients, CRS was mainly performed by laparotomy (n = 42), and only three patients with limited PC underwent laparoscopic CRS. The first 13 patients received treatment before the MDT had been established (group 1), and the other 32 patients were treated after the MDT had been established (group 2). The highest peri-HIPEC body temperature in group 2 was significantly lower than that in group 1 (36.8 °C vs. 37.5 °C, p < 0.001). Overall, eight patients experienced major complications. The trend of a lower major complication rate was observed after the MDT model had been implemented (30.7% in group 1 vs. 12.4% in group 2, p = 0.202). Pre-CRS/HIPEC abdominal pain significantly increased the risk of post-operative major complications (p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Our experience suggests that the early implementation of an MDT model when establishing a CRS/HIPEC programme at a single institution may result in a higher complete cytoreduction rate and lower major complication rate, and also shorten the learning curve of this complicated procedure.

Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) and Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC): a Single-Center Experience in Austria

BACKGROUND

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) can significantly influence overall and disease-free survival in selected patients suffering from peritoneal surface malignancies (PSM) of various tumor entities. Because of the extent of the therapeutic approach, the associated morbidity and mortality and the multidisciplinarity needed, implementation of a CRS + HIPEC program at an institution is often challenging.

METHODS

This single-center analysis included all patients (n = 60, 34 female, 26 male) with PSM from various tumor primaries [colorectal cancer (15/60; 25%), appendix neoplasia (21/60; 35%), and others (24/60; 40%)] treated with CRS + HIPEC at our institution between 2006 and 2014. Charts were reviewed for preoperative patient evaluation, procedure-specific and tumor-specific parameters, morbidity, mortality, tumor recurrence and patients' overall (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS).

RESULTS

In 57 of the 60 patients included in the investigation (57/60; 95%), a radical resection (CC 0/1) was achieved. Median operating time was 559 min (253-900) with a median need of packed red blood cells of 1.1 (0-7) or fresh frozen plasma of 4.4 (0-20) concentrates. Twenty (33.3%) patients experienced 24 Dindo-Clavien grade III/IV complications (24/63; 38.1%). Postoperative 30- and 90-day mortality was 0% in our study population. Five-year OS was 43%, 5-year DFS 33%.

CONCLUSIONS

Due to thorough preoperative patient evaluation, strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, and intense collaboration with other specialties, we were able to achieve an excellent 5-year OS of 43% with a CC score of 0/1 in 95% of our patient population. We were able to demonstrate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of CRS + HIPEC in patients suffering from PSM at our institution.

Youth and Experience: The Effect of Surgeon Experience on Outcomes in Cerebral Palsy Scoliosis Surgery

BACKGROUND

Series on the learning curve in spinal deformity surgery have been published, but none has addressed neuromuscular spinal deformity, comprised of arguably the most complex cases. We present the first multi-center analysis of the impact of surgeon experience on neuromuscular spinal deformity surgery.

METHODS

A multi-center prospective study of spinal deformity surgery for cerebral palsy (CP) with at least 2 years of follow-up provided the dataset for assessment. Surgeons were categorized into one of two groups based on their self-reported first year of practice: an experienced surgeons (ES) group included those with at least 10 years of experience at the time of surgery and a young surgeons (YS) group included those with fewer than 10 years of experience at time of surgery. Groups were compared in multiple pre-operative, operative, and post-operative outcomes.

RESULTS

The YS group had 8 surgeons who performed 59 surgeries; the ES group had 13 surgeons who performed 103 cases, with one surgeon's cases distributed in both groups. The YS group had a greater proportion of patients with severe mental retardation (89.7% vs. 68.6%, p = .01). Duration of surgery was greater in the YS group (456 vs. 344 minutes, p < .001). The mean number of levels fused was greater in the ES group (15.9 vs. 15.6, p = .024), caused by increased variation in the upper level of fusion among the ES group. No significant differences were found between groups for estimated blood loss, length of hospitalization, or in percentage of Cobb correction. Years of experience of the operating surgeon was inversely correlated with duration of surgery (rho = -0.476, p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

In performing scoliosis surgery on CP patients, surgeons with fewer than ten years of practice experience demonstrate significantly greater average operative time and decreased mean number of levels fused, yet produce similar clinical outcomes to more experienced surgeons.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, therapeutic.

Registries on peritoneal surface malignancies throughout the world, their use and their options

AIM

The treatment of peritoneal surface malignancies ranges from palliative care to full cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy, HIPEC. Ongoing monitoring of patient recruitment and volume is usually carried out through dedicated registries. With multiple registries available worldwide, we sought to investigate the nature, extent and value of existing worldwide CRS and HIPEC registries.

METHODS

A questionnaire was sent out to all known major treatment centres. The questionnaire covers: general purpose of the registry; inclusion criteria in the registry; the date the registry was first established; volume of patients in the registry and description of the data fields in the registries. Finally, the population size of the catchment area of the registry was collected.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven questionnaires where returned. National databases are established in northwest European countries. There are five international general databases. Most database collect data on patients who have undergone an attempt to CRS and HIPEC. Two registries collect data on all patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis regardless the treatment. Most registries are primarily used for tracking outcomes and complications. When correlating the number of cases of CRS and HIPEC that are performed to the catchment area of the various registry, a large variation in the number of performed procedures related to the overall population was noted, ranging from 1.3 to 57 patients/million year with an average of 15 patients/1 million year.

CONCLUSIONS

CRS and HIPEC is a well-established treatment for peritoneal surface malignancies worldwide. However, the coverage as well as the registration of treatment procedures differs widely. The most striking difference is the proportion of HIPEC procedures per capita which ranges from 1.3 to 57 patients per million. This suggests either a difference in patient selection, lack of access to HIPEC centres or lack of appropriate data collection.

Cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy for appendiceal and colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis: Clinical outcomes at 2 tertiary referral centers in Korea

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is regarded as effective surgical treatments in patients with peritoneal metastasis. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical outcomes of CRS and HIPEC in patients with appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis.A total of 66 patients who underwent CRS with HIPEC for appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal metastasis at 2 tertiary referral centers in Korea were evaluated between July 2014 and March 2016. The perioperative outcomes and postoperative complications were evaluated prospectively.The mean peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was 15.3 ± 10.5. The distributions thereof were as follows: PCI < 10, 33.3%; PCI 10-19, 36.4%; and PCI≥20, 30.3%. Regarding completeness of cytoreduction (CC), 59.1% of patients achieved CC-0, with 18.2% showing CC-1 and 22.7% showing CC-2. The mean operation time was 9.4 hours, and the mean hospital stay was 20.2 days. The overall rate of short-term complications was 74.2%; the rate of long-term complications was 10.6%. In the short-term period, most complications were grades I-II complications (62.1%), compared to grades III-V (12.1%). All long-term complications, occurring in 10.6% of patients, were grades III-V.In this study, CRS with HIPEC was deemed feasible and safe for treating stage IV appendiceal or colorectal cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis in Koreans.

Training High-Volume Melanoma Surgeons to Perform a Novel Minimally Invasive Inguinal Lymphadenectomy: Report of a Prospective Multi-Institutional Trial

BACKGROUND

Minimally invasive inguinal lymphadenectomy (MILND) is a novel procedure with the potential to decrease surgical morbidity compared with the traditional open approach. The current study examined the feasibility of a combined didactic and hands-on training program to prepare high-volume melanoma surgeons to perform this procedure safely and proficiently.

STUDY DESIGN

A select group of melanoma surgeons with no MILND experience were recruited. After completing a structured training program, surgeons enrolled patients with melanoma who required inguinal lymphadenectomy and performed the procedure in the minimally invasive fashion. A proficiency score composed of lymph node yield, operative time, and blood loss (or adverse events) was assigned for each case. After performing six cases, surgeons meeting a threshold score were considered proficient in the procedure.

RESULTS

Twelve surgeons from 10 institutions enrolled 88 patients. The majority of surgeons were deemed proficient within 6 cases (83%). No differences in operative time or lymph node yield were noted during the course of the study. The rate of conversion was higher during an individual surgeon's early experience (9 of 49 [18%]), and only 1 procedure was converted in the 39 cases performed after a surgeon had performed 5 cases (late conversion rate, 3%; p = 0.038); however, this did not remain significant after controlling for surgeon.

CONCLUSIONS

After a structured training program, experienced melanoma surgeons adopted a novel surgical technique with acceptable operative times, conversions, and lymph node yield. Eighty-four percent of the surgeons who completed at least 6 MILND procedures were considered proficient based on our predetermined definition.