Confirm diagnosis
Confirm histological diagnosis and grade, which determines prognosis.
Reviewed by Dr. Juan José Torrent — Updated: April 30, 2026
Specialized Unit
Surgery for Pseudomyxoma Peritonei
At Quenet-Torrent Institute, we are experts in treating pseudomyxoma peritonei, a rare condition that requires highly specialized surgery. We combine complete cytoreduction with HIPEC for optimal results.
CONTACT SPECIALIST
Clinical summary
Pseudomyxoma peritonei —a mucinous tumour of appendiceal origin— is treated with complete cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC, with curative potential (10-year survival above 70% in expert centres). At Quenet-Torrent Institute (Barcelona · Madrid), Dr. Quenet, Dr. Torrent and Prof. González Bayón have performed over 500 complex peritoneal procedures.
What is pseudomyxoma peritonei?
Pseudomyxoma peritonei is a rare clinical condition characterized by progressive accumulation of mucinous material in the abdominal cavity. It usually originates from a ruptured appendicular mucinous tumor, although it can also come from ovarian or other tumors.
It is a slow-growing condition that can remain indolent for years. However, without treatment, the progressive accumulation of mucin causes compression of abdominal organs, intestinal obstruction, and nutritional deterioration.
Cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC is the treatment of choice and can achieve cure rates above 80% in low-grade cases when complete resection is achieved.
Why request a second opinion for pseudomyxoma peritonei?
This rare condition requires management in specialized centers with extensive experience.
Evaluate resectability
Evaluate whether complete cytoreduction is achievable.
Assess optimal timing
Determine the best time for surgery based on disease burden.
Specialized center
Ensure you are treated at a center with proven experience in this rare condition.
The surgeon's experience is the most important prognostic factor.
How do we treat pseudomyxoma peritonei?
Surgical treatment is the foundation of potentially curative management.
Complete cytoreductive surgery
Removal of all visible mucinous disease and affected peritoneal surfaces.
HIPEC
Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy to destroy microscopic residual cells.
Multivisceral resections
Removal of affected organs when necessary: omentum, spleen, gallbladder, etc.
Iterative surgery
Repeat interventions for recurrences when feasible.
The goal is complete cytoreduction (CC-0/CC-1) to maximize survival.
Our Technology
Technology for treating pseudomyxoma peritonei
High-complexity technology is essential in these complex surgeries.
Automated HIPEC equipment
Precise thermal and flow control for optimal perfusion.
CT/MRI imaging
Detailed preoperative evaluation of disease extension.
Tumor markers
CEA and CA 19-9 monitoring for disease follow-up.
Specialized pathology
Expert pathologists for accurate grading.
WHY CHOOSE US?
Experts in pseudomyxoma peritonei
Quenet-Torrent Institute is a reference center for this rare condition.
Complex Case Experience
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 cure.
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 Close Care
We care about each patient as a person. We listen, support, and guide at every step of the way.
Our Team
Pseudomyxoma peritonei specialists
Every physician at Quenet-Torrent Institute is a recognized expert in their field, committed to each patient's well-being.
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
Oncological Surgeon
View doctor"Specialist in gynecological tumors and peritoneal carcinomatosis. A reference in complex and personalized oncological surgery."
Where to treat
Where to treat pseudomyxoma peritonei?
The Quenet-Torrent team consults and operates in two leading private hospitals in Spain, and welcomes international patients with prior remote case assessment.
Barcelona
Centro Médico Teknon
Carrer de Vilana, 12 · 08022 Barcelona, Spain
- Consultations with the Quenet-Torrent team
- High-complexity surgical theatre and HIPEC
- Reference private hospital in Catalonia
Madrid
Memorial Publio Cordón Hospital
Paseo de la Casa de Campo, 5 · 28223 Pozuelo de Alarcón, Madrid, Spain
- Surgical oncology unit of the Quenet-Torrent team
- Cytoreductive surgery, HIPEC, PIPAC and robotics
- High-tech private hospital (2026)
International
Patients from around the world
We receive patients with pseudomyxoma peritonei referred from Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
- Remote case assessment by our committee
- Travel and stay coordination in Spain
- Care in Spanish, English and French
Frequently asked questions about pseudomyxoma peritonei
Answers to the most common questions about diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
Can pseudomyxoma peritonei be cured?
Yes, especially in low-grade cases with complete cytoreduction. Cure rates exceed 80% at 10 years in favorable cases.
What is the difference between low and high grade?
Low-grade tumors (DPAM) have a much better prognosis than high-grade ones (PMCA). Grading is essential.
How long does the surgery take?
Cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC can last 8-12 hours depending on disease extension.
How long is the recovery?
Hospitalization is usually 10-14 days and complete recovery 2-3 months.
What if the disease recurs?
Repeat surgeries are possible and can be effective in controlling the disease long-term.
Where can I receive this treatment safely?
In specialized centers with extensive experience in pseudomyxoma, like Quenet-Torrent Institute.
Real cases
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 caseRosario (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 caseLaura's case
Rare abdominal tumor treated with complex cytoreductive surgery plus HIPEC and systemic chemotherapy. Disease-free after almost 2 years.
Read the full caseSantiago'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
Verified reviews
See on Google
★★★★★
What our patients say
L
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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