30+ years of experience
500+ CRS+HIPEC procedures
International multidisciplinary committee
Reviewed by Prof. Luis González Bayón — Updated: April 30, 2026
Specialty

Surgery for Ovarian Cancer

At Quenet-Torrent Institute, we have a highly specialized unit for treating ovarian cancer, one of the most complex gynecological tumors. Our approach combines complete cytoreductive surgery, with or without HIPEC, advanced surgical technology, and multidisciplinary planning.

CONTACT SPECIALIST

Surgical treatment of ovarian cancer

Dr. François Quenet explains the highest-complexity surgical techniques for treating ovarian cancer, including cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC.

  • Complete cytoreductive surgery
  • Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)
  • Personalized multidisciplinary approach
Clinical summary

Advanced ovarian cancer with peritoneal involvement is treated with complete cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC in selected patients. At Quenet-Torrent Institute (Teknon Barcelona · Memorial Publio Cordón Madrid), the team of Dr. François Quenet and Dr. Juan José Torrent, reviewed by Prof. Luis González Bayón, has performed over 500 CRS+HIPEC procedures in peritoneal carcinomatosis.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a malignant neoplasm that originates in the ovarian cells. It is the gynecological tumor with the highest mortality because in most cases it is diagnosed when peritoneal dissemination already exists. There are different histological subtypes, with high-grade serous carcinoma being the most common.

The main risk factors are age over 50, family history, BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations, endometriosis, and early menarche or late menopause. Symptoms, although nonspecific, include abdominal distension, loss of appetite, pelvic discomfort, intestinal changes, and frequent urination.

Early detection improves prognosis, but it is usually diagnosed in advanced stages, where cytoreductive surgery is key for survival and quality of life.

Why request a second opinion on ovarian cancer?

Requesting a surgical second opinion is a prudent decision when dealing with a high-impact disease like ovarian cancer.

Confirm resectability

Confirm whether it is a potentially resectable case.

Evaluate HIPEC

Assess the viability of HIPEC or other high-complexity surgical techniques that can increase survival.

Compare approach

Compare the initial approach with that of a reference center in gynecological carcinomatosis.

Preserve fertility

Establish an individualized plan when seeking to preserve fertility or minimize functional sequelae.

Many cases that arrive with limited prognoses can benefit from a complete reevaluation in a multidisciplinary surgical environment.

How do we treat ovarian cancer?

Surgical treatment is the cornerstone of the therapeutic strategy for ovarian cancer. The goal of surgery is complete cytoreduction, meaning removing all visible disease.

Primary cytoreduction

For patients with good status and resectable tumor; includes excisions and resections according to extent.

Interval surgery

Performed after chemotherapy in initially unresectable cases, after significant response.

Cytoreduction + HIPEC

For peritoneal involvement; combines surgery with heated chemotherapy in the abdomen.

Pelvic exenterations

In advanced or recurrent cases with involvement of multiple organs.

Each intervention is performed under strict international oncological criteria and with the participation of a committee of specialists.

Technology for treating ovarian cancer

In highly complex clinical scenarios, technology enhances the quality of surgical outcomes.

Automated HIPEC equipment

Thermal and flow control for precise perfusion.

Robotic surgery

In highly selected cases for greater precision.

3D high-definition laparoscopy

Less invasive approach, with less bleeding and better recovery.

Hybrid operating rooms

Operating room equipped with advanced medical imaging technology (CT).

Image-based planning

CT, PET, MRI improve candidate selection and surgical planning.

Every step in ovarian cancer is an opportunity to reclaim the future

Quenet-Torrent is not just a place where you receive medical care, it's a place where we help you face one of life's most difficult challenges with confidence and hope.

Experience in Complex Cases

We specialize in treating advanced and metastatic cancer, using complex and innovative techniques that other teams don't offer.

Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Approach

We form a team around you with surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, nutritionists, and psychologists, all working together for your healing.

Research Advances

We stay up-to-date with the latest scientific advances, allowing us to apply innovative treatments with better results.

State-of-the-Art Technology

We have facilities equipped with the most advanced medical technology, allowing us to perform high-precision procedures with less impact on the body.

Personalized and Caring Attention

We care about each patient as a person. We listen, support, and guide at every step of the way.

VIEW MORE CASES

Specialists in ovarian cancer

Every doctor at Quenet-Torrent Institute is a recognized expert in their field, committed to the well-being of each patient.

Dr. François Quenet

Dr. François Quenet

Oncological Surgeon

View doctor
"Internationally renowned surgeon, expert in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tumors. Recognized for his precision in highly difficult surgeries."
Dr. Juan José Torrent

Dr. Juan José Torrent

Oncological Surgeon

View doctor
"Specialist in gynecological tumors and peritoneal carcinomatosis. He is a reference in complex and personalized oncological surgery."

Frequently asked questions about ovarian cancer

Answers to the most common questions about diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Can surgery cure ovarian cancer?

Yes, especially if complete cytoreduction is achieved.

Is surgery necessary if chemotherapy has already started?

In many cases, yes. Interval surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy can be very effective.

What is HIPEC and when is it applied?

It is hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy, applied during surgery in cases of peritoneal disease.

Can fertility be preserved?

In highly selected cases of very early stages and low grade, conservative surgery may be considered.

What are the risks of surgery?

Like any major surgery, there are risks, but in specialized centers they are significantly minimized.

How long is recovery?

Hospitalization is usually 7-14 days and complete recovery 2-3 months.

What happens if there is recurrence?

In selected cases, rescue surgery or secondary cytoreduction may be considered.

Is robotic surgery an option?

In highly selected cases of early stages or for specific procedures.

Is a second opinion necessary if there's already a surgical plan?

It is always recommended in complex cases to confirm the best therapeutic strategy.

Where can I receive this treatment with guarantees?

In specialized centers with proven experience in gynecological oncological surgery, such as Quenet-Torrent Institute.

Where to treat ovarian cancer?

We operate in two private hospitals of reference in Spain. The same medical team treats you in Madrid and Barcelona, with the same surgical and oncological standards.

Centro Médico Teknon, Barcelona
Barcelona

Centro Médico Teknon

Internationally recognised private hospital in Barcelona where the team carries out its high-complexity surgical oncology activity.

Carrer de Vilana, 12 08022 Barcelona
View hospital
Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital, Madrid
Madrid

Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital

Private hospital in Pozuelo de Alarcón with a multidisciplinary team specialised in digestive surgical oncology and cutting-edge surgical technology.

Paseo de la Casa de Campo, 5 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid
View hospital

Patient testimonies and surgery explanations

Real testimonies from patients treated by our team in high-complexity surgical oncology.

Debra's case

66-year-old English woman with advanced ovarian cancer and peritoneal metastases. Treated with cytoreduction + HIPEC, she is now disease-free.

Read the full case

Rosario (Charo)'s case

73-year-old patient with advanced cancer treated with chemotherapy and high-complexity surgical oncology. Excellent survival and quality of life.

Read the full case

Laura's case

Rare abdominal tumor treated with complex cytoreductive surgery plus HIPEC and systemic chemotherapy. Disease-free after almost 2 years.

Read the full case

Santiago's case

Diagnosed with widespread peritoneal carcinomatosis and considered inoperable. After complete cytoreduction with HIPEC, today his is a story of hope and survival.

Read the full case

What our patients say

See on Google ★★★★★
L
Loreto Toscano
4 weeks ago
★★★★★

Wonderful surgical team, among the best out there. Dr. Torrent (expert in peritoneal carcinomatosis) is an exceptional surgeon and an even better person. His coordinator is super kind, fast and efficient. The human treatment is great and the results are too. This is of vital importance for cancer patients.

K
Kanijo Sánchez
5 months ago
★★★★★

In the public healthcare system they gave my father a maximum of one year to live. They only offered him chemo and no hope, said it was impossible, that nothing could be done. He had several tumors inside the peritoneal sac with metastases. A year and a half later he is clean, completely cured. His latest PET scan came back clean. We are very happy. Thanks to Dr. Torrent and his team. THANK YOU.

M
Manuel S.D.
A year ago
★★★★★

Excellent professionals, especially Dr. Torrent, attentive at all times to the patient (my wife), operated for peritoneal pseudomyxoma. They helped us with all our needs since we came from outside Barcelona. Thank you Elisabeth. We are very grateful to Quenet Torrent Institute, thank you for everything.

P
Pilar Garcés
2 years ago
★★★★★

I am a 63-year-old patient. They detected adrenal gland cancer and told me there was nothing to be done. I sought a second opinion and they told me about the Quenet Torrent team, specialists in complex operations. Dr. Torrent, from the first moment, told me they could operate. They operated and removed a large tumor mass. I spent a week in the ICU and a month on the ward. Every day he came morning and evening, no matter Saturday or Sunday. Never throw in the towel. I am happy to have found these professionals who gave me my life back. Thank you.

I
Imma Rondán
3 years ago
★★★★★

Many thanks for your attention. Dr. Torrent always attentive, involved and decisive. The reception staff very pleasant and always offering the best option. 100% RECOMMENDED. THANK YOU.

M
Mª Cristina Domínguez
5 years ago
★★★★★

Dr. Torrent helped me make the best decision at a difficult moment. I think he is a great professional and a person capable of accompanying you and putting himself in another's shoes. Thank you for everything.

F
Francisco García
6 years ago
★★★★★

I have peritoneal carcinomatosis. Sending my diagnosis to every center, practically all agreed on palliative chemo with little survival time since I had very aggressive cell types. Until we reached Dr. Quenet, Dr. Torrent and their team. I can only confirm what their CV announces: they are far ahead of the rest. They saved my life, at surgery the harmful cells everyone diagnosed (and used to refuse to operate) were not there. This intervention has become the best investment of my life.

M
Mara Reboredo
6 years ago
★★★★★

The best decision of my life was finding this excellent team of surgeons who saved my husband's life. At a prestigious international clinic in Madrid he was given up for lost with advanced peritoneal carcinomatosis from appendiceal cancer, and thanks to them, the best professionals in this field, he was operated on very successfully. A perfect recovery with no complications, because they were on top of his progress at all times. They have a great quality: from the start they were very honest and close. I can only be deeply grateful; we went to buy time and thanks to them my husband got his life back.

E
Elisenda Br.
7 years ago
★★★★★

Dr. Torrent is a brilliant surgeon and a very easy-going and polite doctor. When talking with him you can easily grasp his qualities as a professional and human being: perseverance, innate curiosity and passion for learning, humility, honesty and empathy. Having surgery is always an intense experience, anxieties arise and one feels very vulnerable. All of that being said, as his ex-patient I can assure that throughout the process his care and professionalism were absolutely outstanding. I felt safe, supported by him, knowing I was in good hands. I will be forever grateful. Moltes gràcies Dr. Torrent!

Need to speak with a specialist?

Complete the form and schedule your appointment to speak directly with the surgeon.

Request consultation