In India, the family unit plays an essential role not only in the decision-making process for cancer treatments but also in the aftercare and recovery journey. This is especially true for complex procedures such as Cytoreductive Surgery (CRS) followed by Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC). Often referred to as the “mother of all surgeries”, CRS with HIPEC is one of the most extensive and demanding abdominal surgeries. It carries a high risk of complications and deeply impacts the patient’s physical and emotional well-being, necessitating a longer recovery compared to most other procedures.
1. Informed Decision-Making: Transparency Matters
It is not uncommon for family members to not reveal the diagnosis of cancer to the patient till long after the treatment has been completed. However, this is not the right thing to do for a patient undergoing CRS and HIPEC, and ‘conspiracy of silence’ comes into play in this situation. One or more counseling sessions must be held with the patient and the family, and they must fully understand what the surgery entails- the potential benefits and risks. The patient needs to be mentally prepared for a longer than usual postoperative stay and the prolonged recovery period thereafter.
2. Preparing for the Journey: Logistics and Support
Patients often have to travel to another city to obtain treatment since the required expertise may not be available in their city or country. This means one or more family members have to take at least 2-3 weeks off from work. Once the patient returns home, aftercare is needed in the form of supporting the patient’s day-to-day activities and providing frequent nourishing meals, among other things. Hence, the caregivers need to plan their time off from work accordingly.
3. Physical Preparation: Setting the Foundation
The patient’s physical readiness for CRS and HIPEC is just as important as mental preparation. In the weeks leading up to surgery:
These measures significantly aid in reducing post-operative complications, particularly respiratory issues, and help the body recover faster.
4. Financial Planning: A Critical Conversation
In India, the cost of HIPEC procedure ranges from 3-5 times that of a surgery for a routine cancer surgery resection. This may represent a substantial financial burden, especially for those who have had multiple prior treatments and have exhausted their resources and/or insurance; it is an out-of-pocket expenditure for many Indian patients. The same needs to be discussed and planned. CRS and HIPEC may be followed by other therapies like systemic chemotherapy in a large proportion of the cases.
5. The Psychosocial Impact: Standing Strong Together
Recovery from CRS and HIPEC can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, during which the patient may experience anxiety, depression, or even temporary psychosis. In this vulnerable phase, unwavering family support is vital. Young patients, in particular, may worry about career interruptions, personal relationships, or future fertility. The presence of a temporary or permanent stoma can further affect self-esteem and quality of life. A supportive, encouraging family can play a key role in helping the patient regain confidence and navigate this new reality.
6. Fertility and Childbearing After CRS and HIPEC
With proper counseling and advance planning, childbearing after CRS and HIPEC is possible for selected male and female patients. It is essential to address these concerns before the surgery, so that treatment options and fertility preservation strategies can be discussed and tailored accordingly.
7. Life After Treatment: Embracing Survivorship
One of the biggest challenges after CRS and HIPEC is the fear of recurrence. This often discourages patients from returning for follow-up visits. However, regular check-ups are crucial to monitor recovery and catch any signs of recurrence early. In some cases, a second surgery may be needed, but this can significantly extend life expectancy and improve the quality of life. For many patients, CRS and HIPEC are not just about survival—they’re about living better and longer. With the right mindset and a strong support system, the benefits of this complex procedure can be fully realized.
Conclusion: A Collective Effort Towards Healing
True healing comes from a combination of expert treatment and emotional strength—and family plays a pivotal role in that process. From preparing for surgery and managing finances to providing day-to-day care and emotional reassurance, the presence of loved ones transforms the entire journey. By understanding the challenges and supporting the patient at every stage, families help in physical recovery and uplift the patient’s spirit—making a real difference in outcomes. For patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC, hope, support, and informed decision-making can turn a daunting journey into a path toward recovery and renewed life.
At Shalby Hospital SG Ahmedabad, we are with you at every step — from diagnosis to recovery — with compassion, commitment, and world-class expertise. Call us at 7069 001 001 to connect with our experts and understand the best way forward. Book an Appointment Now!
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