JAMMU: In a major milestone for cancer treatment in the region, AIIMS Jammu has successfully performed two advanced HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy) procedures, becoming the only government centre in the region currently offering this specialised therapy.
The two patients, hailing from Doda and Muthi, have been discharged and have begun further systemic treatment. The achievement marks a significant step forward in delivering complex oncological care within the public healthcare system.
The surgeries were led by Dr. Paras Khanna, Assistant Professor, Department of Surgical Oncology, with key intraoperative support from Dr. Raksha Kundal and her team.
Explaining the procedure, Dr. Khanna said HIPEC is an advanced treatment for select abdominal cancers that spread within the peritoneal cavity, including ovarian, colorectal, gastric and appendiceal cancers. The process involves cytoreductive surgery to remove visible tumours, followed by circulation of heated chemotherapy within the abdomen to enhance drug effectiveness while minimising systemic side effects.
Such procedures are among the most complex in oncology and require close coordination between surgical, anaesthesia, critical care, and nursing teams. The successful outcomes reflect the growing multidisciplinary capabilities of the institute.
Officials noted that until now, patients from Jammu and nearby regions often had to travel to metropolitan cities for HIPEC treatment, leading to significant financial and emotional strain. The availability of this facility locally is expected to improve access, reduce referrals outside the region, and provide relief to economically weaker patients.
Dr. Sunaina Gupta highlighted the role of meticulous preoperative preparation and comprehensive perioperative care in ensuring the success of these complex surgeries.
Meanwhile, Dr. D. N. Sharma, Executive Director and CEO, said the achievement expands the frontiers of cancer care at the institute. He emphasised that while HIPEC is not suitable for all patients, it can significantly improve survival and quality of life when used in carefully selected cases.
He added that the successful execution of these initial procedures demonstrates AIIMS Jammu’s readiness to expand advanced oncology services and emerge as a regional referral hub for complex cancer care.
