The HIPEC patient journey takes 4–8 weeks from first consultation to surgery, then 7–10 days in hospital, then 8–12 weeks to full recovery. Below is the realistic step-by-step roadmap.
On this page
- Step 1: First consultation
- Step 2: Work-up and tumour board
- Step 3: Pre-op preparation
- Step 4: Surgery day
- Step 5: ICU and ward
- Step 6: Discharge and recovery
- Step 7: Adjuvant therapy + surveillance
Step 1: First consultation (1 day)
Bring all reports — CT/MRI scans, biopsy results, tumour markers, prior treatment summaries. Dr. Nishtha reviews disease distribution (PCI estimate), surgical resectability, and patient fitness. Discussion about candidacy, expected duration of surgery, hospital stay, costs, and outcomes. Decision to proceed is shared — not unilateral.
Step 2: Work-up and tumour board (1–2 weeks)
Investigations: CT chest/abdomen/pelvis (if not done), echocardiography, pulmonary function tests, comprehensive blood work, anaesthesia consultation. Case discussed at multidisciplinary tumour board with medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, radiology. Final decision documented.
Step 3: Pre-op preparation (2–4 weeks)
Optimisation phase: nutritional review, physiotherapy assessment, iron repletion if anaemic, smoking cessation if applicable. Insurance pre-authorisation initiated. Date for surgery scheduled. Pre-op physical conditioning (“prehabilitation”) meaningfully improves recovery — most patients should walk 30 minutes daily for 2–4 weeks before surgery.
Step 4: Surgery day (6–10 hours)
Admission previous evening. Bowel preparation. Anaesthesia review confirms readiness. Surgery 6–10 hours: cytoreductive component first, then HIPEC perfusion 60–90 minutes, then any reconstruction. Family is updated by phone at intervals.
Step 5: ICU and ward (7–10 days)
- Day 1–2: ICU monitoring
- Day 2–3: Transfer to ward; sitting, then walking
- Day 3–5: Diet progression; bowel function returns
- Day 5–8: Drains removed; preparing for discharge
- Day 7–10: Discharge home
Step 6: Discharge and recovery (8–12 weeks)
First follow-up at 1–2 weeks post-discharge. Wound check, drain check, function review. Light walking allowed immediately; heavy lifting avoided for 6 weeks. Pathology discussed at 2–3 weeks once final report available. Adjuvant therapy decision made.
Step 7: Adjuvant therapy + surveillance
Adjuvant chemotherapy typically starts at 4–6 weeks post-surgery if planned. Surveillance: 3-monthly examinations + CA-125 for 2 years, then 6-monthly to year 5, then annually.
See complete HIPEC guide, HIPEC overview, cost details.
FAQs
Will I be conscious during HIPEC?
No — general anaesthesia throughout the entire surgery, including the HIPEC perfusion phase.
Will I have a colostomy bag?
Most patients do NOT need a colostomy. If bowel resection is required, the surgeon usually performs primary anastomosis. A temporary stoma is needed in <10% of cases.
When can I drive after HIPEC?
Usually 4–6 weeks post-discharge, once you can comfortably wear a seatbelt and have full attention for traffic.
When can I travel by air?
After 4 weeks if recovery is uncomplicated; check with the surgical team first.
What if I need urgent help after discharge?
Direct WhatsApp number +91 76988 00333 is provided to all patients. Acute concerns (fever, severe pain, bleeding) warrant immediate hospital re-evaluation.
Reviewed by Dr. Nishtha Tripathi Patel, MBBS, DGO, DNB, Fellowship Gynaecological Oncology, ESGO-certified. To book: WhatsApp +91 76988 00333.