Postoperative Quality of Life in Patients with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis

Abstract: Background Today, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) are believed to have increased survival rate in patients affected by peritoneal carcinomatosis. However, cured patients and long-term survivors have ongoing health care problem after their treatment is successfully completed. Aim The aim of this study was to compare quality of life (QoL) of cancer survivors treated with cytoreductive surgery (CRS) plus hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) versus current oncological standard care. Method Fifteen QLQ-C30 (QLQ-C30, a cancer specific instrument for measurement of QoL) primary research studies that relate to the QoL in CRS-HIPEC recipients and meet pre-set eligibility criteria were selected to conduct a systematic literature review. Results The QoL was characterized by high scores at the baseline, a short-term decrease during1-3 month postoperatively. Thereafter, there was an increase in QoL during the subsequent 6-12 months followed by improvement in long-term survivors but there was a decrease in QoL as a result of recurrence. The QoL was similar when compared with the reference groups, but it was lower than in the general population. QoL after CRS and HIPEC can be equivalent to that of well-functioning, disease-free cancer patients. Conclusion QoL after CRS and HIPEC can be equivalent to that of well-functioning, disease-free cancer patients. Patients receiving CRS combined with HIPEC need continuum care assistance across hospital, home and other settings to cope with short-term and long-term effects of cancer diagnosis and therapy. Findings suggest a comprehensive approach of care that will consider delivery of adequate clinical information, individuals’ preferences, perceptions, and participation in decision-making.