Peritoneal Cancer

Peritoneal cancer is rare. It affects the thin membrane protecting your abdominal organs (peritoneum). This condition used to have no treatment options. But when you come to our program, there’s hope for healing. Receive care from highly regarded specialists who use the latest therapies.

Uncommon Peritoneal Cancer Expertise in Central Massachusetts

Peritoneal cancer, also known as peritoneal malignancy, is challenging to treat. At UMass Memorial Health, you receive services from surgical oncologists and other specialists with in-depth knowledge of this condition. We use sophisticated methods, like hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), to eliminate the cancer. Our team is also advancing peritoneal malignancy care and outcomes through research.

Types of Peritoneal Malignancy We Treat

We deliver exceptional care for the two types of peritoneal cancer:

• Primary, which originates in the peritoneum
• Secondary (peritoneal carcinomatosis), which spreads to the peritoneum from cancer in other organs

Peritoneal Malignancy Services We Provide

UMass Memorial has all the services you need for comprehensive treatment. Offerings include:

• Advanced diagnostics: We use sophisticated imaging studies and procedures to take tissue samples (biopsies). Gastrointestinal pathologists and abdominal imaging specialists interpret the results for an accurate diagnosis.
• Tumor debulking (cytoreductive) surgery: Fellowship-trained surgical oncologists, some specializing in peritoneal malignancies, remove as much visible cancer as possible. 
• HIPEC: During the same session as the debulking procedures, we circulate a heated chemotherapy solution throughout your abdomen. This therapy requires special skills we have developed through handling a high volume of cases. 
• Chemotherapy: You may benefit from additional forms of chemotherapy after surgery and HIPEC. We offer the latest research-based options and tailor them to your needs. 
• Survivorship services: We continue caring for you after treatment with therapies that relieve ongoing symptoms. Our team also develops a personalized plan for optimizing your long-term well-being.