What Is HIPEC Surgery?
HIPEC stands for Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy. It is a specialised treatment for cancers that have spread to the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). HIPEC is performed in combination with Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS), where the surgeon first removes all visible tumour deposits from the peritoneal surface, and then heated chemotherapy (41-43°C) is circulated directly inside the abdominal cavity for 60-90 minutes.
The rationale behind HIPEC is powerful: by delivering chemotherapy directly to the affected surface at an elevated temperature, drug concentrations at the tumour site are 20-200 times higher than with intravenous chemotherapy, while systemic side effects are significantly lower. The heat enhances the penetration and cytotoxic effect of the chemotherapy drugs.
Cancers Treated with CRS + HIPEC
Peritoneal metastases from colorectal cancer. Peritoneal mesothelioma. Appendiceal cancers with peritoneal spread (pseudomyxoma peritonei). Ovarian cancer with peritoneal involvement. Gastric cancer with limited peritoneal disease. Selected cases of peritoneal sarcomatosis.
CRS + HIPEC at Nanavati Max Hospital
Nanavati Max Institute of Cancer Care is one of the select centres in India equipped to perform CRS + HIPEC procedures. Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan and his team have expertise in performing these complex, multi-hour surgeries that require meticulous removal of all visible tumour deposits followed by the intraperitoneal chemotherapy perfusion.
The procedure typically takes 8-14 hours depending on the extent of peritoneal disease. It requires a highly skilled surgical team, dedicated perfusion equipment, specialised anaesthesia support, and an experienced ICU team for post-operative management.
HIPEC Surgery Cost in India vs Abroad
HIPEC is among the most expensive cancer surgeries due to its complexity, duration, and the specialised equipment and drugs involved. In the United States, CRS + HIPEC can cost $80,000-150,000. In Europe, €40,000- 80,000. In India, the same procedure at a premier institution like Nanavati Max is available at a significantly lower cost while maintaining equivalent standards of care.
The exact cost depends on the extent of peritoneal disease (which determines surgical duration), the chemotherapy drugs used, ICU stay requirements, hospital stay duration, and room category. Contact our team with your medical reports for a personalised cost estimate.
Ready to discuss your treatment options? Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan is available for virtual consultations via WhatsApp video call or the hospital’s telemedicine platform.
Call +91 7304663828 | WhatsApp +91 7700058024 | Book Video Consultation
FAQ’S
Who is a candidate for HIPEC?
Patients with limited peritoneal carcinomatosis from colorectal, appendiceal, ovarian, or gastric cancers who are otherwise fit for major surgery may be candidates.
What is the recovery time after HIPEC?
Hospital stay is typically 10-14 days, with ICU monitoring for the first 2-3 days. Full recovery takes 6-8 weeks.
Is HIPEC available at Nanavati Max?
Yes. Nanavati Max is equipped to perform CRS + HIPEC with the necessary infrastructure, equipment, and experienced surgical team.
