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Breakdown of the benefits of PIPAC

Posted on: October 12, 2023 *Updated on: May 27, 2024

Here’s a breakdown of the benefits of PIPAC, which stands for Pressurized IntraPeritoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy
October 12, 2023

  1. Eligibility for Surgery: PIPAC can act as a bridge to surgery for patients previously deemed inoperable. By reducing the tumor burden or improving the patient’s overall condition, surgery becomes a viable option. Coupling surgery with HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) can enhance the prognosis even further, as some studies demonstrate notable 10-year survival rates for mesothelioma patients who undergo the combined treatment.
  2. Symptom Improvement: Peritoneal mesothelioma often comes with distressing symptoms, and PIPAC has been shown to alleviate a number of them. The improvement of symptoms like abdominal pain or discomfort enhances the patient’s quality of life.
  3. Management of Peritoneal Effusion: Fluid buildup, or peritoneal effusion, can cause discomfort and other complications. PIPAC has been shown to control this condition in a significant number of patients.
  4. Optimized Chemotherapy Delivery: PIPAC allows for a high concentration of chemotherapy to be delivered directly to the tumor site, increasing the drug’s cancer-fighting efficacy. Additionally, because of localized delivery, there’s a lower systemic absorption, which means the rest of the body is exposed to lower levels of the drug, potentially minimizing side effects.
  5. Gastrointestinal Stability: Many treatments can exacerbate gastrointestinal symptoms, but PIPAC generally does not. This means patients don’t experience a worsening of symptoms such as nausea or diarrhea, which further contributes to their quality of life.
  6. Low Toxicity: Unlike some other treatments, PIPAC does not seem to be associated with significant damage to vital organs like the liver or kidneys. This makes it possible for patients to undergo multiple cycles of the treatment, increasing the potential for effective disease management without the added risk of organ damage.

As with any medical treatment, it’s essential for patients to discuss PIPAC with their oncologist or specialist. While PIPAC offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone, and understanding its potential side effects and risks in relation to an individual’s health condition is crucial. As research progresses, the role and efficacy of PIPAC in managing mesothelioma and other peritoneal malignancies will become clearer.