Debulking Surgery and HIPEC

At Weill Cornell Medicine, our team of colon and rectal surgeons have extensive experience performing the most advanced surgical procedures available. This means that we can offer our patients more treatment options, including those for advanced cancers.

Our compassionate surgeons are highly trained and experienced in performing debulking (a procedure to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible, often referred to as “cytoreductive”) surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) techniques. This is a complex procedure proven to be an effective treatment option for improving outcomes and extending life.

During this process, the surgeon first removes all visible cancer or tumors (debulking surgery). Next, heated chemotherapy drugs are delivered to the abdomen directly (HIPEC).

Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?

Proven leaderhip and exemplary results: Our surgeons are leaders in treating recurrent colorectal cancer and cancers that have spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity. They work together with other oncologists to define the ideal treatment path to handle the most difficult situations.

Learn more about the leading research about HIPEC procedures being conducted by Weill Cornell Medicine colon and rectal surgeons.

Multidisciplinary care for comprehensive treatment and recovery: When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to a network of doctors and specialists. This includes experts in gastrointestinal oncology, urogynecology and gastrointestinal medicine.

In addition to your cancer care team, you have the option to receive additional support and expert guidance from the physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Integrative Health and Well-Being Program and Department of Psychiatry. You also have access to nutrition counseling, social work services, rehabilitation care and support groups.

Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.

Conditions We Treat with Debulking Surgery and HIPEC

Benefits of HIPEC: With the HIPEC procedure, surgery is performed to remove all the visible cancer then higher concentrations of chemotherapy can be delivered to the specific area of the body affected by cancer. These higher concentrations are also heated, which makes the drug more effective at targeting cancerous cells. In addition, the chemotherapy-related side effects are much less severe with the HIPEC procedure than with oral (swallowed) or intravenous (delivered through a vein) chemotherapy drugs.

What to Expect During Your Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine

At Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, we do everything we can to support our patients and their loved ones before, during and after treatment. Learn more about what to expect during your stay.

What to expect during the procedure: During the operation, the surgeon will first remove all visible cancer cells. This process is called cytoreductive or debulking surgery.

After this surgery, a heated solution of chemotherapy will be delivered to your abdominal cavity. This is sometimes referred to as a “chemotherapy bath.” Your belly will be massaged to distribute the chemotherapy solution throughout your abdomen and reach any microscopic cancer cells. Next, the solution is drained, the abdominal area is rinsed and all incisions are closed.

What to expect after the procedure: When you return home, you will spend the next several weeks resting and recovering. Most patients feel recovered two to three months after the surgery.

After your surgery, you will meet with your cancer care team at regular intervals to screen for signs of cancer and help you achieve optimum long-term health to live your fullest life possible.

Make an Appointment

Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.

If you would like a remote second opinion, we can connect you directly with expert physicians and specialists at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division. They will review your individual situation, answer your questions and provide you with information you can share with your family and local practitioner. You can then decide to come to our facilities for treatment or choose to stay in your hometown and receive treatment locally. Learn more at WCM OnDemand Second Opinion.

To request an appointment, please fill out our form. Our staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.

Meet Our Surgeons

The physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.