PERITONEAL CANCER AND HIPEC
A diagnosis of peritoneal cancer (peritoneal carcinomatosis) is a profoundly challenging turning point that suddenly brings life to a halt and leaves the mind grappling with the most complex questions. The feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty that overwhelm you the moment you first hear this diagnosis are entirely human and understandable. However, thanks to the revolutionary advancements in modern medicine, we now have much more powerful tools at our disposal to combat this condition. Specialized surgical techniques applied to the membrane lining the surface of the abdominal organs, along with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, are bringing a new ray of hope to our patients. Your greatest assurance on this journey is an experienced specialist who manages the process with a scientific and compassionate approach.
What Is Peritoneal Cancer and How Is Treatment Planned?
The peritoneum, known in medical terms as the abdominal lining, is a vast surface that protects our internal organs. When various cancers of the digestive system or gynecological cancers spread to this lining, a complex clinical picture emerges. While treatment options for patients at this stage used to be quite limited, advanced oncological approaches developed today have completely transformed the landscape. In treatment planning led by Asst. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Tümen, the patient’s overall condition, the extent of tumor spread, and the tumor’s genetic characteristics are carefully evaluated. Just as every person’s fingerprint is unique, a strategy tailored entirely to the individual patient—rather than relying on standard templates—is adopted.
A Groundbreaking Method: What Is HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)?
One of the most effective modern treatments for peritoneal cancers is the combination of cytoreductive (tumor-reducing) surgery and HIPEC therapy. The fundamental principle of the procedure is the meticulous removal of all visible tumor tissue during surgery. Following this, heated chemotherapy solution is administered into the abdominal cavity using specialized devices.
The greatest advantage of this method is its ability to directly target microscopic cancer cells—which are difficult for standard intravenous chemotherapy to reach—using high heat and a concentrated drug effect. Administering the drugs in a heated state increases the cells’ sensitivity to the medication while helping to minimize systemic side effects. Asst. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Tümen, a member of the pioneering surgical teams that first implemented this method in Turkey, meticulously applies his deep expertise in this technique to ensure the well-being of his patients.
Such a comprehensive and advanced surgical procedure can never be limited to the efforts of a single physician. A multidisciplinary team process, in which specialists in general surgery, medical oncology, pathology, anesthesia, and intensive care work in harmony, is the key to success. The path to be followed at each stage is meticulously planned within this transparent scientific ecosystem.
Coping with this process emotionally is just as critical as the speed of physical recovery. Being able to openly discuss any questions you may have with your doctor and participating in the treatment process as an informed individual will help you regain a sense of control. The support of your loved ones and the professional guidance of Assistant Professor Dr. Süleyman Tümen will be your greatest sources of strength on this journey. Remember, with the right timing and HIPEC treatment performed by experts, it is possible to take steps toward a hopeful future in peritoneal cancer; we will walk this path together, with determination.