The long-term impact of hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy on survivors treated for peritoneal carcinomatosis: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) after complete surgical resection is currently accepted as a therapeutic option for peritoneal carcinomatosis. However, considerable morbidity is reported after HIPEC. We aimed to evaluate the impact of HIPEC on the quality of life (QoL) of survivors without recurrences of disease according to socio-demographic and medical variables. For that purpose, HIPEC was used as a global concept including the surgical procedure effects. A cross-sectional study was performed by analyzing questionnaires concerning socio-demographic data, the psychological status, and general and specific QoL scores. Sixty-eight patients (86% of those contacted) completed and returned mailed questionnaires. For 19/21 QoL dimensions explored, survivors reported good to very good QoL with a median score >/=67%. The two adversely affected dimensions were future prospects and sexual functioning with a mean score of 57% and 23%, respectively. The burden of carcinomatosis, evaluated by a peritoneal index, was not correlated with statistically identified sequels in QoL. The extent of morbidity due to HIPEC, evaluated by the hospital stay, was statistically correlated with only one score, namely, embarrassment during social activities (p = 0.01) but not during familial life. Even though HIPEC is considered as an aggressive treatment, survivors reported good to very good QoL. However, specific care for the psychological aspect, as reflected by anxiety regarding future prospects and sexual activity, needs to be developed for survivors.