HIPEC

HIPEC (heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy) is a complex procedure reserved for patients with advanced abdominal cancers. It involves cytoreduction surgery to remove as much of the tumor or tumors as possible, followed by the circulation of a heated chemotherapy solution throughout the abdominal cavity. The chemotherapy solution helps kill any remaining cancer cells and reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. There is substantial evidence showing HIPEC is an effective treatment for several cancers affecting the abdominal region.

doctors operating
Leopoldo Fernandez, M.D., and his surgical team demonstrate HIPEC in VCU Health School of Medicine's Center for Human Simulation and Patient Safety

VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Leopoldo Fernandez, M.D., and Stephanie Sullivan, M.D., are among the few surgical oncologists in the state to offer HIPEC for the treatment of advanced or complex abdominal cancers, including:

  • Appendiceal cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Mesothelioma
  • Pseudomyxoma peritonei
  • Stomach cancer
  • Low-grade sarcoma
  • Peritoneal inclusion cysts

‌HIPEC patients are assisted by a dedicated nurse navigator, who helps guide them through diagnosistic tests, treatment and recovery. Patients typically spend 5-7 days recuperating in the hospital following HIPEC, which is similar to standard cytoreduction surgery.

Watch the video below to see Fernandez and the HIPEC team explain the procedure and what patients can expect. For more information about HIPEC, or for appointments and referrals, please call (804) 628-3111 or email HIPEC@vcuhealth.org.

Meet our team

Request an appointment

Request an appointment

With more than 150 top cancer specialists serving the needs of our patients, Massey’s health care team provides a wealth of expertise in cancer diagnosis, treatment, prevention and symptom management.

Request an appointment
Get access to new, innovative care

Get access to new, innovative care

Treatments in clinical trials may be more effective or have fewer side effects than the treatments that are currently available. With more than 200 studies for multiple types of cancers and cancer prevention, Massey supports a wide array of clinical trials.

Search Clinical Trials

Current patient support

Have a question? Reach out to our treatment team nurse patient navigator:

Kristin Reed, R.N.
(804) 828-6790