Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC): Breakthrough Treatment for Metastatic Stomach Cancer
27 July 2026
For patients whose stomach cancer has spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneal metastasis), the cancer's location makes it especially difficult to treat. Traditional chemotherapy struggles to reach this area effectively, and surgery alone is often not enough.
Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City is changing this outlook for patients with this form of stomach cancer. We recently performed our first Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) procedure, marking a significant milestone in our hospital's cancer care capabilities.
The landmark surgery was led by Dr Sou Jing Kim, Consultant General and Upper Gastrointestinal Surgeon at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City.
What Is HIPEC?
HIPEC is a specialised treatment designed to treat cancers that have spread to the peritoneum, the thin membrane lining the abdominal cavity.
This area is often difficult for conventional intravenous chemotherapy to reach effectively, making peritoneal metastasis one of the more challenging complications of stomach cancer to treat.
By delivering chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity, HIPEC achieves higher local drug concentrations while minimising systemic side effects.
How Does HIPEC Work for Metastatic Stomach Cancer?
The HIPEC procedure consists of two key stages:
- Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS): During this first stage, the surgical team removes the stomach and any visible tumours within the abdominal cavity.
- HIPEC Therapy: Once cytoreductive surgery is complete, heated, high-dose chemotherapy is circulated throughout the abdominal cavity.
A Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Approach
HIPEC involves close coordination and collaboration across multiple specialties, involving our specialists from oncology, anaesthesiology, pharmacy, operating theatre and nursing. This ensures that our patients get the best possible care at every stage, supporting enhanced clinical outcomes in the management of this form of metastatic stomach cancer.
Explore HIPEC as a Treatment Option for Metastatic Stomach Cancer
A stomach cancer diagnosis with peritoneal spread can feel overwhelming, especially when standard options seem limited. HIPEC now offers a path forward for patients who may not have had one before, combining surgical removal of visible tumours with targeted chemotherapy in a single, coordinated procedure.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with stomach cancer that has metastasised to the peritoneum, our team is here to help you understand whether HIPEC may be a suitable option. Click below to schedule a consultation or find out more today.
