Introduction
Learning that colon cancer has spread to the peritoneum can raise many questions and a lot of worry. It is normal to wonder what this diagnosis means, whether it can be treated and what the process will look like from now on.
In this guide we want to explain, clearly and simply, what peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin is and what you can expect from your treatment.
What is colon peritoneal carcinomatosis?
The colon is part of the large intestine. In some patients, colon cancer cells can break away and spread across the peritoneum, the membrane that lines the inside of the abdomen.
When this happens, we call it peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin.
Important
This does not necessarily mean that the cancer has spread throughout the body. It is mainly inside the abdomen, which means treatments aimed at this area can be considered in selected patients.
What symptoms can it cause?
Symptoms can vary a lot from one person to another. Some patients have few symptoms and others notice clearer changes. The most common are:
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Swelling or an increase in the size of the abdomen
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation)
- Feeling tired
- Loss of appetite or weight
If you notice any new symptom, or one that gets worse, tell your medical team.
What does my treatment involve?
Treatment for colon peritoneal carcinomatosis is not the same for every patient. It is decided individually, taking into account the extent of the disease, the response to previous treatments and your general health.
In many cases, the first step is systemic chemotherapy, given into a vein. The aim of this chemotherapy is to control the disease and, in some patients, reduce its extent.
When the disease responds well to chemotherapy and certain criteria are met, surgery may be considered with the aim of removing all visible disease.
Surgery and HIPEC treatment
Surgery
The aim of surgery is to remove all visible disease inside the abdomen. It is a complex operation carried out in specialized centers by experienced teams.
During surgery, in addition to the colon tumor, it may be necessary to remove parts of other organs if they are affected by the disease, such as:
- Segments of the intestine
- Parts of the peritoneum
- Appendix
- Spleen
- Areas of the diaphragm
These organ resections are only done when they are needed to make the surgery as complete as possible.
HIPEC
In selected patients, especially when the disease has responded well to previous chemotherapy, our center may use a treatment called HIPEC.
HIPEC consists of:
- Giving chemotherapy directly inside the abdomen
- At a slightly raised temperature
- During surgery, after the visible tumor has been removed
This treatment aims to destroy microscopic tumor cells that cannot be seen during the operation.
HIPEC is not suitable for every patient, and the medical team assesses whether it is indicated on an individual basis.
How should I prepare for surgery?
Before surgery, you will receive clear instructions on how to prepare:
- Stay as active as you can
- Eat a balanced diet, rich in protein
- Stop smoking if you smoke
- Ask your questions and share any fears or concerns
Good preparation helps improve recovery after the operation.
What complications can occur after surgery?
Not everyone has complications, but it is important to know the most common ones.
In the first few days after surgery, the following may occur:
- Abdominal pain
- Changes in bowel function
- Surgical wound infection
- Fluid collections in the abdomen
- Fever
- Temporary need for special nutrition
Less often, the following may occur:
- Bleeding
- Abdominal infections
- Problems with the bowel sutures
For this reason, you are monitored closely in hospital after surgery.
How long will I be in hospital?
The length of stay depends on how complex the surgery is and how each patient progresses.
- Average stay: 7-14 days
- Complex surgeries: It may be longer
During this time, pain, eating, mobility and general recovery are monitored.
What will my recovery at home be like?
Recovery is gradual and takes time. It is normal to:
- Feel tired for the first few weeks
- Notice changes in bowel habits
- Need to adapt your diet
- Need help at home at first
Little by little, most patients regain their independence and daily activities.
What will my follow-up be like?
After treatment, you will continue to be followed by your medical team:
- Regular check-ups
- Imaging tests and blood tests
- Assessment of symptoms and quality of life
Follow-up is part of the long-term treatment.
A message for you
Peritoneal carcinomatosis of colorectal origin is a complex disease, but specialized treatments now exist that can offer options to selected patients. If you have questions about your case, we can assess it.
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