PIPAC for Ovarian Cancer: First-Line and Recurrent Use

Questions answered on this page

1. Can PIPAC be used during first-line ovarian cancer treatment?

PIPAC is not part of standard first-line ovarian cancer treatment; it is being investigated in clinical trials for newly diagnosed advanced ovarian cancer with peritoneal spread, alongside surgery and platinum-based chemotherapy.

To place PIPAC in context, the points below contrast standard first-line care with where PIPAC may fit:

Standard first-line care: surgery to remove visible disease plus carboplatin and paclitaxel, often with maintenance therapy such as a PARP inhibitor or bevacizumab where appropriate.
Where PIPAC may fit: as a trial option when peritoneal disease is extensive, or before or after surgery within a research protocol.
Main evidence: most PIPAC ovarian data come from recurrent or platinum-resistant disease.

Ask your gynecologic oncology team whether a first-line PIPAC study is open near you.

2. Can PIPAC be used for recurrent or platinum-resistant ovarian cancer?

Recurrent and platinum-resistant ovarian cancer with peritoneal metastases is the setting in which PIPAC has been most studied, with reports of tumor regression, ascites control and symptom improvement in some patients.

Because these patients have limited treatment options, PIPAC is often offered at specialist centers or within trials, sometimes combined with intravenous chemotherapy. Benefit varies between patients, and randomized evidence is still developing.

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Important medical notice. This content is for general education and does not replace advice from your oncologist or surgeon. PIPAC availability, drug regimens, eligibility and evidence differ between countries and centers, and many uses remain investigational. Speak to a qualified multidisciplinary cancer team about your own situation.

Have questions about PIPAC? Talk to a surgical oncologist.

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