Ovarian cancer is one of the most common malignancies affecting Indian women, with around 35,000 new cases diagnosed each year. Globally, India records the second-highest number of ovarian cancer cases. Approximately 1 in 78 women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime, highlighting the importance of early detection and advanced treatment options. One such cutting-edge treatment is Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC), which offers promising results for patients with advanced ovarian cancer.

Understanding Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries, the reproductive glands responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen, making it more challenging to treat. Early-stage ovarian cancer, where the disease is confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer. While a family history of breast or ovarian cancer among first-degree relatives accounts for 5% to 10% of cases, other significant risk factors include:

Genetic mutations: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the risk.
Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after menopause.
Reproductive history: Women who have not had children or had their first child after age 35 may have a higher risk.
Lifestyle factors: Increased sedentary habits, obesity, and dietary factors can contribute.
Hormone replacement therapy: Long-term use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can elevate the risk.
Endometriosis: This condition is linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and can be mistaken for other common conditions. Key symptoms to watch for include:

Abdominal bloating or swelling
Quickly feeling full when eating
Weight loss
Discomfort in the pelvic area
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
Frequent need to urinate

HIPEC: A Breakthrough in Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) is an advanced treatment option for ovarian cancer that involves the direct application of heated chemotherapy drugs to the abdominal cavity. This technique is typically used after cytoreductive surgery, where as much of the visible tumor as possible is removed.

How HIPEC Works

Cytoreductive Surgery: The procedure begins with the surgical removal of visible tumors from the abdomen.
Heated Chemotherapy: A heated chemotherapy solution is then circulated within the abdominal cavity. The heat enhances the effectiveness of the chemotherapy drugs, allowing them to penetrate and destroy remaining cancer cells more effectively.
Direct Application: By directly applying chemotherapy to the affected area, higher concentrations of the drug can be used without causing severe systemic side effects.

Advantages of HIPEC

Targeted Treatment: HIPEC allows for higher concentrations of chemotherapy to be applied directly to the cancerous area, increasing its efficacy.
Heat Enhancement: The heat used in HIPEC increases the absorption of chemotherapy drugs by cancer cells, improving their destruction.
Reduced Systemic Toxicity: Because the chemotherapy is concentrated in the abdominal cavity, there is less systemic exposure, reducing overall toxicity and side effects.
Improved Survival Rates: Studies have shown that HIPEC can improve survival rates in patients with advanced ovarian cancer compared to traditional treatments alone.

Eligibility for HIPEC

Not all patients are candidates for HIPEC. Eligibility depends on several factors, including the stage of cancer, overall health, and the ability to undergo extensive surgery. A thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team of specialists is necessary to determine the suitability of HIPEC for each patient.

The Treatment Process

Preoperative Assessment: A comprehensive assessment, including imaging and diagnostic tests, is conducted to evaluate the extent of the disease and plan the surgery.
Cytoreductive Surgery: The surgical team removes visible tumors from the abdomen, aiming for maximal tumor reduction.
HIPEC Procedure: The heated chemotherapy solution is circulated in the abdominal cavity for about 60 to 90 minutes.
Recovery: Postoperative care is crucial for recovery. Patients may require a hospital stay of several days to monitor for complications and ensure adequate recovery.

Post-Treatment Care

Post-treatment care is essential for the best outcomes. Patients will have regular follow-ups to monitor for recurrence and manage any side effects. A healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, is also recommended to support overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer treatment has advanced significantly with the introduction of HIPEC. This innovative approach offers hope for patients with advanced ovarian cancer, providing targeted treatment with improved outcomes. Early detection remains key, so it is crucial for women to be aware of the risk factors and symptoms associated with ovarian cancer and seek medical advice promptly if they have concerns. By combining advanced surgical techniques with cutting-edge treatments like HIPEC, we can improve survival rates and quality of life for ovarian cancer patients.

Dr. Nitin Singhal
Achievements

Dr. Nitin Singhal

Robotic and HIPEC Surgeon

World-Class Training: Trained at Tata Memorial Hospital in Mumbai, one of the world's leading cancer training hospitals.
Gynecologic Oncology: Specializes in gynecologic oncology surgeries, including treatments for ovarian, cervical, and endometrial cancers.
Gastrointestinal Cancers: Expert in colorectal cancer surgeries focused on sphincter preservation, using advanced techniques like robotic surgery and HIPEC.
Urological Cancer Care: Skilled in treating urological cancers, including kidney, bladder, and prostate cancers, with minimally invasive robotic surgery.
Thoracic and Pediatric Oncology: Experienced in thoracic cancers and pediatric solid tumor resections, offering comprehensive care across multiple cancer types.

Why Dr. Nitin Singhal is the Leading Robotic and HIPEC Cancer Surgeon

Expertise

Techniques

Contributions

Collaborative Team

Infrastructure

Trusted Knowledge

Dr. Nitin Singhal is a distinguished cancer surgeon with extensive experience in Ahmedabad. He specializes in complex oncological surgeries, including Robotic and HIPEC procedures, making him a top choice for cancer patients. His medical journey includes MBBS and MS General Surgery from the prestigious Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, followed by advanced training in Surgical Oncology, cementing his status as an expert in his field.

Dr. Nitin Singhal is renowned for his meticulous approach to surgery. Whether it's a challenging Robotic surgery or a sophisticated HIPEC procedure, Dr. Singhal’s precision and attention to detail have significantly improved patient outcomes. His expertise extends across a range of cancers, including gastrointestinal, urological, and gynecological malignancies.

As a pioneer in the field, Dr. Nitin Singhal has introduced and refined advanced surgical techniques, particularly in Robotic and HIPEC cancer surgeries. His contributions have been instrumental in setting new standards for cancer care in Ahmedabad and beyond. Dr. Singhal’s commitment to innovation and excellence makes him a trusted name in oncological surgery.

At his state-of-the-art facility, Dr. Nitin Singhal leads a dedicated team of specialists who share his commitment to providing world-class cancer care. This multidisciplinary team collaborates closely, ensuring comprehensive and personalized treatment plans for each patient. Together, they offer an unparalleled level of care, making the facility a leading destination for cancer treatment.

The hospital is equipped with cutting-edge technology, including the latest robotic systems, HIPEC treatment setups, and advanced imaging equipment. The infrastructure supports a full spectrum of oncological care, from diagnosis to treatment and recovery. With a modern ICU, state-of-the-art operation theaters, and specialized radiology services, the facility is designed to provide the highest standard of care.

Dr. Nitin Singhal is widely respected for his deep understanding of cancer treatment and his compassionate approach to patient care. His patients trust him not only for his surgical skills but also for his ability to guide them through their cancer journey. This trust is a testament to Dr. Singhal’s commitment to his patients’ well-being and his reputation as one of the best cancer surgeons in Ahmedabad.

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