Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosolized Chemotherapy (PIPAC)

An innovative surgical procedure that’s increasing treatment options for those with late-stage abdominal cancer.

Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosolized chemotherapy (PIPAC) is a minimally invasive surgery that sends chemotherapy directly into the abdomen to destroy cancer cells. During surgery, two small incisions are made in the abdomen so that liquid chemotherapy can be delivered through a nebulizer, a device that uses high pressure to turn chemotherapy into a mist. The nebulizer stays in the abdomen for 30 minutes and diffuses chemotherapy throughout.

PIPAC can be an effective treatment for certain cancers that spread to the lining of the abdomen, including but not limited to:

• Colorectal
• Ovarian
• Stomach
• Appendiceal
• Gastric
• Mesothelioma

Advantages of PIPAC treatment

• PIPAC destroys microscopic cancer cells that can’t be seen by the human eye and are difficult to surgically remove.
• High pressure allows a lower dose of chemotherapy to be used – leading to lessened side effects.
• It targets the abdominal area, reducing chemotherapy exposure to the rest of the body.
• Minimally invasive surgery means a shorter recovery, which is especially beneficial for those who aren’t in physical condition to undergo a larger surgery. The procedure takes about two hours. You can go home the next day and return to other treatments right away.

Why choose Henry Ford for your PIPAC treatment

Our team at Henry Ford St. John Hospital was the first in Michigan to perform a PIPAC procedure and we are one of only a few cancer centers across the country who offer it. We are nationally recognized experts in the treatment of peritoneal cancer (cancer in the abdominal lining). As a national leader in cancer care, we are often one of the first or only cancer centers in Michigan to provide emerging treatments, clinical trials and options for patients with the most advanced, rare cancers.