Hyperthermic Intraperitonal Chemotherapy?

[LuvOrlando]

Sending best wishes for a good outcome.

 

[Dan Murphy]

Good thoughts with you and Tom today, Bobbi. 's

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Hi Bobbi. We have talked a little bit privately already, but more supportively than informatively. As you know, I am a 21 yr cancer survivor who’s done the whole surgery, chemo and radiation thing, as well as a nurse who works with these types of medical crises regularly in patients.

I’m sorry you have to deal with this. As I said before, it’s good if “not a lot” was found. Cancers inside the abdomen can be difficult to diagnose, and therefore, sometimes get a late diagnosis. It sounds like maybe you caught it early. Often they will do a PET or other scans to see if there is additional cancer growth from it spreading elsewhere in your body. No evidence of spread would be wonderful.

With something like this, it’s important to go to a great cancer facility, with a renowned oncologic surgeon very experienced in this therapy, and I believe that’s what you are doing, which is good. They don’t offer this treatment just anywhere, and not just anyone can do it, it’s specialized and lots of regulations and monitoring go along with it.**

The first time appendix cancer really came onto my radar was about 15 yrs ago when a family friend was diagnosed with it in his 40s. I was surprised they were referred for care to a certain hospital for the hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) instead of our top cancer hospital. I contacted the head of the abdominal cancer dept at the cancer hospital to ask about it. He said they didn’t offer it because - at that time - research hadn’t proven it to be effective. So our friend went to the other hospital and had it done there, twice, a couple of years apart. He lived for about five years. Insurance had initially balked at paying for it, but eventually did, on appeal. I also know another lady around 60 who had it done two years ago for appendix cancer and is doing very well without recurrence.

From looking at it now, it appears that there is a significant improvement in results, no doubt from many thousands of cases being done this way since 2010, and I would absolutely choose it over traditional debulking therapy alone. They do it in conjunction with surgery where the experienced surgeon removes all the cancer, and, when done, the hot chemo is poured into the open abdomen for a period of a few hours to let it do its job of killing any remaining cancer cells, being moved around to target the area specifically. You will be under anesthesia so you won’t feel anything, and you’ll be all fixed up when you awaken. It will feel like recovery from any other abdominal surgery. So no day at the park, for sure, but also probably no worse for the wear, either.

I think it’s natural to feel nervous going into something like this. You are not alone. I hope you seek out support at a cancer support center, or even a wellness center. We do have a cancer support thread here if you want to visit. Hang in there, and maybe you can keep us updated here. Keeping you in my prayers. Hope this helps.

**With that said, there are people that choose to stay at local hospitals as that’s what they’re comfortable with, and honestly, a lot of it depends on what you’re dealing with. I know someone who had thyroid cancer recently and she did not want to go into the city for care and I think that worked out ok for her. Some community hospitals do partner with large teaching hospitals to make it easier for patients to stay closer to home. Just wanted to put that out there. Perhaps after the big surgery there may be other appointments that can be taken care of locally. It can get to be draining once the process starts to be running all over the place.

 

[bobbiwoz]

After talking to the doctor and nurse today, I have decided to have the surgery. My major concern was my age, and I was assured that all tests will be done prior to the operation to be sure my body can handle it. We talked about the recovery and I do have an idea about what it will entail.

Thank you everyone who has offered support and prayers here. I don’t have a date yet, and have I mentioned here that we are on The Treasure, DCL very soon? Definitely looking forward to that!

 

[Dan Murphy]

After talking to the doctor and nurse today, I have decided to have the surgery. My major concern was my age, and I was assured that all tests will be done prior to the operation to be sure my body can handle it. We talked about the recovery and I do have an idea about what it will entail.

Thank you everyone who has offered support and prayers here. I don’t have a date yet, and have I mentioned here that we are on The Treasure, DCL very soon? Definitely looking forward to that!

Thanks for your update, Bobbi. You're on the right track.

Enjoy that well deserved, restful cruise. 's

 

[princesscinderella]

As you begin your journey to kick cancer’s ***! I hope you have an amazing cruise with a lot of relaxation.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

Just all my love and thensome dear Bobbi. I think I have shared with you before that I do not hate anything. To me there is nothing kind about that word. The closest thing for me other than anyone intentionally hurting someone else particularly a child or animal, would be cancer! I absolutely pray for its permanent end. We all believe in you! Cancer no matter what never=you my friend! God Bless you and please enjoy your cruise!

 

[Simba's Mom]

Hopefully (and it sounds like) you got some questions answered and you're more confident about your decision. When you can please update us on how you're doing. You've got lots of us here who care and think of you and Tom often. Meanwhile, enjoy your cruise!

 

[AppleDumpling]

So sorry to hear you are going through this, dear Bobbi, my game buddy. Sending cyber hugs and positive thoughts for peace, strength, and healing.

 

[luvthatduke]

bobbi I'm joining this thread a little late but want you to know you have many friends here.
I will add you to my prayer list .

 

[bobbiwoz]

bobbi I'm joining this thread a little late but want you to know you have many friends here.
I will add you to my prayer list .

Thank you!

 

[CarolynFH]

Bobbi, I have no words of wisdom to offer. Just wanted to let you know I’m among your cyber friends, offering support during tough times.

 

[klmall]

Thinking of you as I read about your cancer diagnosis! I was going to say that if a surgical technique is recommended it's worth checking out and trying! My thoughts and prayers for you Bobbi and enjoy that cruise!

 

[bobbiwoz]

Bobbi, I have no words of wisdom to offer. Just wanted to let you know I’m among your cyber friends, offering support during tough times.

Thinking of you as I read about your cancer diagnosis! I was going to say that if a surgical technique is recommended it's worth checking out and trying! My thoughts and prayers for you Bobbi and enjoy that cruise!

Thank you!

I appreciate all the kind thoughts, prayers and support from all friends here!

 

[patm95]

My wife has a friend of a friend that had this procedure. It was very effective from what I recall.

 

[cabanafrau]

I have zero informational value to offer, but I send you prayers and good thoughts for recovery. I also hope your upcoming trip exceeds your dreams.

 

[bobbiwoz]

My wife has a friend of a friend that had this procedure. It was very effective from what I recall.

I have zero informational value to offer, but I send you prayers and good thoughts for recovery. I also hope your upcoming trip exceeds your dreams.

Thanks!