Postby CM35 » Fri Sep 25, 2015 9:15 am
I can't help with the question of who or where is the best as far as HIPEC centers or surgeons for pseudomyxoma peritoniei, unfortunately. I had HIPEC in May; during my initial consult, I remember my surgeon saying that appendiceal cancer and pseudomyxoma peritonei had the best response to HIPEC. That those tumor types tend to stay on the peritoneal surface where CRC invades the tissue more deeply. However, since those two types of cancer are relatively rare, most HIPEC procures are done on CRC patients. So, this isn't particularly helpful, but I would say the key factor, if this is more extensive/complicated case, the key is finding an aggressive surgical oncologist. The cytoreductive part of the surgery, rather than the HIPEC part, is most important - being able to get that complete resection of disease. I have heard of instances of the surgeon at Mt Sinai (Labow) taking on tough cases. From what I understand, they are also pretty aggressive at UPMC. Another consideration is if there is a good, but perhaps not famous, HIPEC surgeon local to where your friend lives. I chose to go with my non-famous, local surgeon and I am not sorry I did. I had some complications post op, and it was highly comforting to be at home, and there was no stress of trying to coordinate my care over the phone with my surgeon and local doctors. I could just call my surgeon, and be seen in the office that day if needed.
Good luck to your friend!
Colleen
stg IV 4/2013 @34 - liver, ovary/peritoneum
Lots of chemo, surgery and good luck - still doing well 03/2016...