TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 15, 2025: Health facilities in the state continue to advance under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and the dedicated efforts of Health Minister Shri Shyam Bihari Jaiswal. In a groundbreaking achievement, the Cancer Surgery Department of the Regional Cancer Institute at Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Memorial Hospital has successfully treated peritoneal cancer using the PIPAC (Pressurized Intraperitoneal Aerosolized Chemotherapy) technique. This marks the first use of this advanced procedure in any government cancer hospital in Central India.
A 54-year-old woman from Odisha, suffering from stomach membrane cancer, underwent the procedure and has shown significant improvement. She was discharged five days after treatment and is now in good health.
What is PIPAC?
PIPAC is a cutting-edge chemotherapy technique that delivers pressurized chemotherapy in aerosol form directly into the abdominal cavity through a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. This approach enhances the drug’s effect on cancer tissues while minimizing damage to other organs.
The procedure was led by cancer surgeon Dr. (Prof.) Ashutosh Gupta, supported by a team of experts including Dr. Kishan Soni, Dr. Rajiv Jain, Dr. Gunjan Agarwal, and Dr. Shashank from anesthesia.
Advantages of PIPAC
Dr. Gupta explained that PIPAC evenly distributes chemotherapy within the abdomen, increasing the concentration of the drug at the site of the cancer. This improves the ability to target cancer cells while reducing side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and organ damage. The technique shows promise for treating advanced cancers, including peritoneal, gastrointestinal, and ovarian cancers.
How the Procedure Works
During the procedure, a small incision is made to insert an access port, which inflates the abdominal cavity. Pressurized aerosol chemotherapy is then administered for 30 minutes, after which the equipment is removed, and the incision is closed.
Leadership and Vision
Dr. Vivek Chaudhary, Director of the Regional Cancer Institute and Dean of Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru Medical College, commended the team for their pioneering efforts. He emphasized that this technique is safe and effective, and could serve as a new treatment option for various cancers in the future.
Superintendent of Ambedkar Hospital, Dr. Santosh Sonkar, praised the hospital’s consistent dedication to patient care, reinforcing the public’s trust in the institution.
This achievement represents a new chapter in cancer treatment in Central India, offering hope to patients suffering from advanced forms of the disease. With continued support from the state government and the health department, such innovations are set to transform the region’s healthcare landscape.
